Well…you guys almost broke my blog! The day I posted about My Mom, hundreds of you left a comment. Every single one (and I have read them all) was a blessing. Each one of you is a blessing. I am honestly having a hard time coming up with the words to convey my thanks. I don’t know how to adequately express how grateful I am for your friendship…so I hope you just know. You generously shared your own stories and each one had its own message. You held me up when all I wanted to do was crumble.
My mom’s death has changed me forever. The phrase “life is short” has a brand new meaning. I want to live each moment like it was my last and not waste even one day. I know that might sound sort of dramatic, but I honestly feel differently about the years ahead. I can’t explain it fully but I want to try harder, love without reservation and live in the moment.
I need to get back to work. So many of you said to give myself time…and I promise I will…but I need to fill my days with something positive and wonderful. I can’t think of a better way to do that than hanging out with all of you. This blog has saved me countless times. Once again, it is coming to the rescue.
So many of you have asked about my dad. He is actually doing pretty good. We both have our moments of course…but we are starting to remember how my mom was before she got sick. I won’t let her final years define her and my dad feels the same way. We have no regrets. We both know we did the very best we could in regards to her care. We certainly weren’t perfect but we should get an “A” for effort. We are incredibly grateful that she was able to come home and be with us at the end of her life. My dad always put her happiness and well-being before his. He has been an incredible role model…not just for me but for my kids. That in itself is a precious gift.
I haven’t done a real project since before Christmas. With spring just around the corner, I hope to share some new and inspiring ideas. I will be sharing more of my eBay blog with anyone who subscribes by email…so if you haven’t signed up and want to, just click the image below my signature. (It might be among some ads so I’m sorry about that.)
With a grateful heart,
My thoughts and prayers have been with you during this difficult time. It’s a blessing to be left with beautiful, loving memories of your mother. Yes, live in the moment – and take care.
It always amazes me to know that you are out in cyberspace Ann and to be able to tell you are a beautiful person.thank you so much for your caring words,they mean a lot to so many people.this is what makes the world a better place for us all.
Dorothy from Washington state
Welcome back, Ann! Your “live in the moment” printable (which I downloaded back when you first introduced it) sits prominently in a gilt frame on my coffee table. You shared it with us just when I needed it most, following a frightening medical diagnosis. I’m still here and it reminds me daily of what’s important. Thank you.
This will be the third time in as many days that I have share this quote. While I hope it will be the last time for a long while, I think it is so profound and beautiful I want to share it again and hope it brings you some peace: Grief never ends but it changes. it’s a passage, not a place to stay. grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith, it is the price of love.
Good morning Ann,
Finding something tangible like working on your wonderful blog during this time, is living in the moment. I’m glad you and your dad is remembering your mom before her illness, like how my mom and sisters remembered their husbands. You said that you haven’t made anything new the past few months, could it be your mom was front and center in your heart?
May this Spring give you beautiful flowers and warm sunshine to put a balm on your heart.
Hugs, Kathleen in Az
OH, Ann! I don’t know how I missed your post about your mom. I offer my most heartfelt condolences. Giving up our parents is such a hard part of life. Just know that I am thinking of you and praying for you.
Your friend,
Jeanette
So glad you’re back. I know its a journey watching a parent fail physically and saying good bye. Losing my dad 4 years ago was one of the hardest things I’ve faced. But I remember how he loved God and our family. On days when you think your heart is breaking all over..cling to the thoughts of cherished memories, fun times and the promise of seeing them again.
Ann – welcome back! Thank you for an update on yourself and your father. We are truly “virtual” friends.
I really like how you said how you won’t let her “final years define her” – so appropriate and I needed to read that this morning as I deal with my mom aging.
Big hugs!
Dear Ann, I lost my son to cancer two and a half years ago…he was 29 and the light of my life…I am still trying to find my way through the grief so I understand some of what you and your Dad are going through.
I found your blog… the photos of your beautiful creations have given me many moments of peace…just looking at them has a calming effect and I love learning how to recreate them.
I know my family has gathered close to support each other and that is the special gift you also have. I wish you all well.
I’m sorry about your mom. My condolences to you and your family. Your mom will be missed by her loving family. Glad to hear your dad is doing well. And inderectly your word are in inspiration. Thank you.