In loving memory

14 years ago today, my mother passed away suddenly. She was 53. Michael was 4. I was 30.

I've missed Mom so much. I missed her on her grandson's first day of kindergarten and I'll miss her in two days when he graduates from High School. I missed her when I walked down the aisle into the arms of the man she always dreamed I'd marry. I missed her on Gwen's Gotcha Day and I miss her all the time as Gwen and I share happy mother-daughter moments that remind me of my childhood. I'll miss her on Maddy's Gotcha day too.

I always think about her on her birthday but I don't go out of my way to remember the anniversary of her death because it's such a sad thing. Most of the time, the day passes without catching my attention. But when I do notice it, I think it's only right that I take a moment to honor her memory. It's good to remember the funny, giving, "artsy", loving person who I called "Mom". But it also hurts to think about all the world lost when we lost her.

I'm just glad He lets her visit.