My mom died on October 27, 1986. How we’ve all made it 24 years without her is nearly incomprehensible to me.
The anniversary of her death is hard each fall, but it seems as though sometimes it’s harder than others. This has been one of the more tough years. I don’t know why, exactly, but it has.
I’ve given this a lot of thought, and I have decided that instead of rehashing the sad and difficult stuff that has been going through my mind recently (you’re welcome. But I reserve my right to be depressing next year), I will think happy thoughts and focus on being thankful.
I’m thankful for the time we had with her, for the strong foundation she gave my sister and me that enabled us to be happy and successful adults. I’m thankful to her and my dad for providing an example of what marriage should be. I’m thankful for the memories we have to share with our kids.
But most of all, I’m just thankful she was my mom.
(((HUGS))), Emily! I can’t even imagine. You’ve got the right idea, tho’—focusing on her LIFE and not DEATH!
I cyber-hug you, too. You are such a wonderful testament how wonderful a mom she was. You are in my prayers today. 🙂
I wish I could have met your mom; Diane speaks so highly of her. I am thankful that she gave us you! And my heart hurts with you. Praying for you today.
Hey, Em…I was really touched by your posting. I’m fortunate to still have both my parents, and I can’t imagine what I would have done if I had lost either at such a young age. But always remember that your mom is part of you and part of Kate and Sam, so she will never truly be gone. And I’m a firm believer in guardian angels–your mom is your guardian angel.
I am praying for you today. Hugs to you and your family.
I always have tears on this day. I don’t think I’ve ever forgotten it once since I’ve been an adult. Your mom was so much fun, so loving, so GOOD at anything pertaining to entertaining little girls. So crafty! And so warm. I know this is weird but the first thing I think of when I think of her is warmth. She would be SO proud of you and Annie and your kiddos. And she will always be missed and loved.
Thinking of you and praying for you during this time. I know how hard it is to lose a parent early and I’m glad you can count your blessings. Hugs!
Emily thoughts and prayers are with you. I know how you feel I lost my dad in 1997. The feeling of loss never goes away and some days are better than others. Just remeber that she is always with you.
I completely understand what you’re going through. I lost my mom to cancer when I was just 6 – in 1985. It has been a struggle, especially through major events like weddings, births, etc. But, like you said, I always have to remind myself that I was lucky to have the 6 years I had!
That is a beautiful photo and a loving sentiment.
Dear Emily. Kathy was a year behind me in school. I didn’t know her very well but I remember her as the cutest and sweetest little thing. She just seemed to handle herself with such grace that just made people adore her. She truly was very special. I don’t remember when you started piano, whether it was before or after her death, but I remember having to wipe the tears away, watching your little fingers on the keys. I had a daughter about your age and my heart just went out to you. I remember you being pretty quiet and I knew there was nothing I could do to make it better.
And I also share your pain. That beautiful daughter, Melanie, passed away at 27 just 2 years ago on Oct 13th of cancer. Her twins were 11 months old when she died. And we too try to focus on the joy of them. I often say we lost one beautiful, precious child but God saw fit to double our joy by giving us two beautiful babies to love. But our true source of strength has been the joy of the Lord, knowing that there is a purpose in it all. I have fond memories and you, Annie and your grandmother Forney. Love and be blessed today. Shirley
All of her dreams for you girls have come true and she is so proud of you.
Em, big hugs to you!! I’m thankful for your mom for birthing you because I’m thankful for what an awesome YOU you are!
Emily, My prayers are with you today. I lost my mother 18 years ago and still cry anytime I hear or read the phrase..I lost my mother. I think it is one of the defining moments in a woman’s life. I only know you through Jenny and Diane but I believe your mother would be so proud of you today. I applaud your ability today to look at the happier times that you enjoyed with her. This blog is a wonderful legacy that your girls will have about how important being a Mom is to you.
Your post brought tears to my eyes and makes me so very thankful that my mom is still here. From reading the previous comments it sounds like she was truly a wonderful woman and mother! Your mother is surely watching over your and your children and smiling 🙂 May we all not take a single day we are blessed with for granted.
This is poignant in many ways. Tomorrow would be Daddy’s 89th birthday. I can not begin to imagine your loss, as I was blessed with Dad for 58 of years and still have Mother.
Having known your mother, it touches me to think of her. She was truly a sweet person, even as a high school girl. I can see why your dad was attracted to her. She had a good spirit, was kind, and people liked being around her.
I can’t say that for every girl in high school!
Though you were very young when she left, there should be enough memories to keep you going.
And, looking at you is like looking at her!
That’s a good thing.
Great Post
UP
Where’s the like button! I am so right there with you. I lost my father 14 years ago 10/17. It is so hard sometimes. During the difficult times I think about how blessed I was to have him for the time I did. I couldn’t have had a better day. I love sharing stories with my children grandpop and they sit and soak it all up which makes it even more special.
love you…;)
I lost my dad on October 22, 2006. I’ve only had 4 years to deal with it and this was the first year that I was a functional human being on the anniversary of his death. There are definitely good days and bad ones. I know I don’t know you personally but loss is universal. Thinking of you and your family.