A Time for Alzheimer's is a must for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's. It is Florence Baury's personal account of her mother's dehumanizing illness, and how she and her family dealt with the crisis. Unlike so many of the books written on the subject for the last decade, Baurys approaches the subject from a Christian perspective.

Baurys chronicles her mother's escalating seven-year decline into dementia, beginning with a telephone conversation with her confused parent in 1983. Within a few years her mother was unable to drive a few blocks without being lost. She was neglecting her personal grooming. One day Baurys watched her parent wash grapes and then plop them into the dog's food-splattered bowl to eat them.

This is an emotional story. However, this book is a must for those who have family members with Alzheimer's, or suspect its symptoms in those they love. It will help them to understand the financial and personal problems ahead for the entire family, and to be prepared for what is to come.

One helpful chapter is devoted to the five stages of Alzheimer's, and explains the medical difficulties that plague doctors in their diagnosis. Baury's, who is also a Registered Nurse, also shares helpful strategies in finding proper facilities for ill parents.

As a Christian, Baurys has written this book "in order to help others to maintain their hope in a dark time." She encourages dealing with anger and grief, and remembering joyful memories even though the AD victim does not. In spite of the circumstances caused by this ugly disease, Baurys account leaves the caregiver with the hope that they, too, will survive the ordeal because God's presence is with them. By writing this book, Baurys has done a Christian service for those who must deal with this tragic disease.

A topic few people wish to discuss let alone read about. This author made this an easy read, full of information and even inspiration, plus needed resources.

When a loved one is diagnosed, or shows symptoms of this disease be sure to read this book. It will help you to understand that there are many things that you will need to act on and understand as the disease progresses. Don't be caught not knowing. Do yourself a favor and get this book.

"A Spur for Christmas" is a charming story of four armadillo brothers who make their own Christmas tree out of a prickly pear cactus. The illustrations are the part I liked best in this book, because they are pictures plants,animals, and birds that you can see in South Central Texas.