The Rocking Horse Diary by Alan Combes

After reading a story about a magic rocking horse, Kirk and his Grandfather decide to build one.  Grandpa said the magic would be added last.  Sine Kirk is still in school, they only work on it on weekends so it's slow going.

The author sent me a copy of his book to read and review (thank you).  It has been published so you can by a copy now.

His Grandpa's memory is going.  He forgets things, forgets how to do things and sometimes acts like a little kid.  Kirk doesn't mind that so much because he's fun to play with but it is a bit embarrassing.

He realizes it could be dangerous when Grandpa is cooking beans to go over toast and he puts the can in the microwave.  He sets the microwave on fire and the neighbors have to come to the rescue.  Then, he can't drive anymore.  The doctor confirms he has dementia and Kirk's parents try to help.  Soon it's apparent he can't stay by himself.

While all this is going on the poor rocking horse is still spread out on the garage floor.  Kirk doesn't think it will ever get done now.  But this rocking horse does have magic...

My grandmother had this problem.  She lived in her memories and someone had to stay with her all the time.  I'd spend a week or two each summer while my aunt and her husband went on vacation.  She wasn't what she had been but her memories made great stories.  She taught me to cook.  Dementia is just a change, the love is still there...