There's no single formula for caring for those living with dementia—only small, meaningful pieces of a puzzle that gradually teach us how to love effectively.

This week's episode, with host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, explores how memory, grief, and dignity are interconnected in unexpected ways. From the lost stories buried deep inside the mind to the unwavering determination of carepartners who refuse to let those stories fade, this episode celebrates the journey of holding on—and letting go.

Mary Anne reflects on her trip to Chehalis, Washington, for a family member's memorial service -a moment of unexpected closure filled with tears, laughter, and family embracing its history. This experience helped her realize that people with dementia also need to grieve; they feel the absence of loved ones, even if fuzzy or tangled. Allowing them to mourn, recount, or sit with loss respects their humanity and story. "Pieces of the Puzzle" invites us to see dementia care as a calling to remember together.

www.verandaministries.org

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A New Year's Eve celebration with those living with dementia and Alzheimer's feels sacred, filled with soft moments, memories, and unexpected joy. Paper hats sit crooked, cider overflows, noisemakers honking away, and questions may be repeated, but heart and presence matter most. On this very day at the Veranda, stories unfold—some vivid, some fragments—showing that memory lives in body and spirit. Laughter erupts over funny tales, while tender moments honor loved ones lost. The countdown may vary, but the true celebration is about togetherness. Hugs, music, and shared memories remind us that feelings matter more than details, and even in forgetfulness, we remain whole and worthy here.

This is what Veranda Ministries and Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's mission are all about. Happy New Year!

We don't have to remember everything to feel something.
We don't need every detail to know love.
And even in forgetting, we are still ourselves—still belonging, still worthy, still here.

www.verandaministries.org

This week, we're highlighting The Veranda's extraordinary ministry where dignity, purpose, and compassion come together beautifully. The Veranda is preparing to launch a new church service specifically for those living with dementia, creating a safe and sacred space where everyone can worship freely and feel deeply loved. Also shared on this episode is how The Veranda continues to support caregivers through groups that offer encouragement, community, and understanding during difficult times.

Additionally, they recently celebrated a major success: their Christmas Wishbook Marketplace! With ornate baskets, handmade gifts, and delicious baked goods, the event raised essential funds to sustain The Veranda's mission. Join us as we explore the heart, hope, and miracles happening at The Veranda—where ministry truly meets memory, and every life still has a song to sing.

www.verandaministries.org

In this deeply personal episode, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly reveals a long-hidden family secret, an admission that, once uncovered, changed the course of events forever. Although the truth may be upsetting, Mary Anne stresses that it is also the foundation for healing. Her story explores how hidden truths affect future generations and how those with dementia may carry the weight of concealed pain and unresolved memories. This discussion highlights that honesty, even when difficult, is an act of compassion. While truth doesn't erase the past, it can help shape a transformative future.

The Veranda's "Wishbook Wonderland" Open House, Bazaar, and Marketplace takes place Friday and Saturday, December 5th & 6th, at the Veranda Ministries location, 9 am to 3 pm each day, 650 #4 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN. The public is invited.

www.verandaministries.org

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly emphasizes the significance of appointing someone you trust to assist not only with medical and psychological decisions for your loved one but also to support you during this challenging time.

www.verandaministries.org

Upcoming events for Veranda Ministries:

"A Night of Faith, Music and Gratitude", featuring Dave Clark, Riley Harrison Clark, Allison Durham Speer, Lauren Talley, Bill Blackwood, Josh Singletary, Mary Anne Oglesby-Suther and Jeff & Sue Duffield. TUESDAY, Oct. 28th, 6:30 pm at First Baptist Church, 613 S. Main Street, Goodlettesville TN. $10 per person; plus a generous offering will be received to benefit the Veranda.

"A Wish Book Wonderland" at the Veranda, 650 Nashville Pike B-4, Gallatin TN - an exceptional shopping experience, featuring beautiful festive baskets and gift items for purchace. December 5th & 6th, Friday & Saturday - from 9 am - 4 pm. The public is invited.

Respite care offers caregivers the opportunity to recharge and find joy, even in the midst of exhaustion. Caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's is sacred but draining, and humor often helps. This episode celebrates the gift of respite, which eases burdens and restores happiness.

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly shares stories with producer, Sue Duffield, from Mike Glenn's book, "Coffee With Mom - Caring For A Parent With Dementia," guaranteed to make you laugh. Churches are increasingly welcoming individuals with memory loss, developing programs that support their families. This episode offers hope and laughter, reminding us that even in the midst of forgetfulness, God's love helps us remember what truly matters.

A "Faith, Music and Gratitude" concert benefiting The Veranda Ministries featuring Allison Durham Speer, Lauren Talley, Dave Clark, Billy Blackwood, Riley Harrison Clark, Josh Singletary, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, and Jeff & Sue Duffield, will take place at First Baptist Church of Goodlettsville, TN, on Tuesday, October 28th, 2025. Doors open at 6 pm. Admission is $10 per person, with a love offering during the event.

mailto:mao1024@gmail.com

www.verandaministries.org

Join us for an uplifting exploration of the life-changing impact of "Day Respite Care Centers" and the remarkable work of Veranda Ministries. You'll gain insight into the legal aspects of our program and get an exclusive update on the exciting changes on the horizon. We're eager to share our vision with you and invite your feedback on how just four hours can profoundly transform the lives of Tennessee's aging population and their families/care partners.

Your opinions will be instrumental in shaping our mission to support those living with dementia and the aging population. We welcome perspectives from all states, as many programs offer similar "day respite" services.

Please share your thoughts with us at mailto:mao1024@gmail.com. Your input will be invaluable in helping us drive positive change.

www.verandaministries.org

Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and her sidekick, producer Sue Duffield, will share their recent experiences with back problems, aching bodies, and the struggles of aging humorously. It's guaranteed to make you laugh out loud.

However, beneath the humor, their conversation raises an important question: how do people with dementia cope with aches and pains? How can they communicate when they are hurting? It's a sobering thought that deserves attention and discussion. Being a CarePartner is challenging, but understanding your loved one in all stressful situations is essential to helping them adapt, adjust, and feel heard.

www.verandaministries.org