I didn't write about this yesterday, as I wanted to focus on as much joy as I could for the day. Yesterday was the 40th anniversary of my mother's passing. Forty years sounds like such a long time. But in my mind and heart it feels much shorter. I miss her still. What I've come to realize over the years is that you can simultaneously hold sadness and loss in one hand while holding joy and celebration in the other.
My family has so much to celebrate right now. My niece (with cancer) is doing really well. The surgeon "got it all." She needs to make a decision on what route to take next, but I believe she will do well either way. My nephew and niece-in-law welcomed their first baby into the world a week ago today. This would be my parents' first great grandchild. New life is such a source of joy. My own health is getting better with each passing month. And I'm nearly done with all of the dental stuff, too. All of my children are well and enjoying their lives, and they'll all be here for Christmas. And we have a new "fixture" around our house, a boyfriend of one of my daughters. My husband has an opportunity to travel this spring for work and see some of his siblings while he's there. One of my daughters dog-sits regularly and she has another gig this weekend. That means that I might get to briefly visit with the pooch for a minute or two if I volunteer to drop her off. He's a super sweet dog.
So many lovely moments in my family's life right now. It's hard to dwell on sadness over my mother's passing anniversary. I'm certain I will see her again. And that is itself a joyous thing. It's okay that I'm a bit sad at times. But I've learned to not allow this loss to color my entire day or week.
Christmas is one week away. I have so much to do! My menus are made. But I need to shop for what foods I'll need. I have a few gifts still to buy, and all of them to wrap. There are more treats to be baked and tins to be filled. I haven't even finished decorating the house yet! I've got to get busy.
I'll be away from this blog until shortly after Christmas. Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday! Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! May your celebrations be held with all of your loved ones. See you soon.
I understand your sadness/joy. I think anyone who has lost a loved one can identify with that.
ReplyDeleteWishing you and yours a Blessed Christmas!
We all need to step back and count our blessings as most of us have so many ! Linda M
I'm glad you are able to reach a point in your grief where you have joy as well. Losing your mom so early must have been painfully hard. It is always good to balance our sadness with gratitude and joy.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!! I admire your efforts to make holidays so special for your family. I'm glad you are choosing to break from your blog and lighten your load.
Have a wonderful week,
Laura
Merry Christmas, all! Yes, I think most people reach a certain point in adulthood when there is sadness intermingled with joy. I'm glad you are able to find the points of happiness and gratitude in your life, and I wish that for all of us.
ReplyDeleteI can't say it much better than the others did above, but I am glad that you are able to find joys as you grieve the loss of your mother. Also, I'm glad to hear that your niece with cancer is doing well. I remember that you asked for prayers for her. Have fun with your family and good luck finishing up those last minute tasks.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI lost my mother to COVID 3 years ago. We grieve but not as those who have no hope. My grief can only go so deep because I know our separation is temporary. Your post reminded me a poem that Corrie Ten Boon used to quote called, The Weaver. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. Immanuel. Christ with us.
ReplyDeleteMy mother spent a lot of time trying to find the "Christmas Spirit." My grandmother, her mother died on Dec 22, her birthday was Dec 2. I really didn't process how much that affected her until she passed right after Christmas 2 years ago. I knew the memories hurt her but not just how much. Now I know.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, Lili! I am so happy to hear the good news about your niece! A new baby and a boyfriend around the house are wonderful, too! I understand the forever ache left from losing your mother - time doesn't take it away. I can see glimpses of my mother in special family members. I hope you can see your mom in that way too!
ReplyDeleteJo