Sorry for my long absence here. Getting back on track after my mother’s passing has taken me a couple of weeks. The effort it takes to get in gear is in three areas: Physical, emotional, and spiritual. Demands in one area take away from responsibilities in another area. How to balance these takes some adjusting and doing. My writing has taken a back seat.

FRIENDS:  My friends help out. I share with them my vulnerable side, and they share their vulnerable side with me. I haven’t always liked or risked being as open with people as I am now. The book Safe People opened my understanding on how to be genuine in relationships. I must trust my good and my frustrating sides and my stories with them. Each friend contributes something special to my life. They are helping me climb out of the fog I’ve been in for a couple of years now.

Thank you to my friends for being there for me.

FAMILY:  Family is a rich part of my life. The past couple of months weren’t the easiest for us, but they were special. My siblings and I honored Mom by remembering her through a beautiful memorial service and a lovely graveside service. My sisters and I sang a trio, each of us siblings gave a tribute, my brother officiated, and others also participated. Thank you to my parents’ grandchildren. They all made the extra effort to come from Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, Washington, Virginia, Alabama, Florida, and California to pay tribute to their grandmother. Their presence meant a lot to their parents, aunts and uncles and Grandpa. Thank you. I love you.

Saying goodbye tugs on the heart strings.

CHURCH:  My parents’ church was kind to us. We held Mother’s service in the church sanctuary and the church provided a reception afterwards. They prepared food and a spacious room with tablecloths and decorations, making it lovely and nice. They were willing and accommodating, which made it smooth and comfortable for all who came. We enjoyed visiting with family and friends, some we hadn’t seen in years. Thank you to the Evangelical Free Church of Chico.

We were blessed by your kindness.

GRIEF:  Grieving is a process. I am moving in slow motion these days. Today I wrote several thank-you’s to people who helped with the services and others who brought gifts of flowers and plants. Thoughtfulness is a wonderful way to communicate love and caring. One friend baked cookies and a cake and brought them to my dad’s house. Neighbors showed up and spoke with my Dad to express their sympathy.

That was wonderful of them.

Mother’s journey has ended. She has finished the course, and she finished it well. I am thankful for those who prayed for us. You are dear to our family. Those who specifically prayed for me, thank you, I needed it. There were times I was overwhelmed. It is always a comfort to know people are praying, and I mean that.

Saying goodbye.

God bless you and your families.

Finish well.

Norma

P.S.  My mother was a godly woman. She was faithful in everything she did; faithful to her husband, children, church, and in using her talents and abilities to bless others. Most importantly, she was faithful to God. Her legacy is rich. She made her life count. My dear sweet mother will always be missed. Dear Mother, as you look down from heaven, from my heart to yours, I love you.

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