Mother of Seven + 2

I wrapped my arms around his shoulders.  I wanted to weep.  There seemed only a shell left of the man I knew and loved. But it was a day of celebration.  Resurrection Sunday.  Easter.  Swallowing the lump in my throat, I left a feather soft kiss on his cheek and said words to distract my hurting heart.  "I bet you are enjoying having your family all home."  With effort he acknowledged he was. Taking a deep breath I headed to my seat as the tears threatened to fall.  It was a beautiful service.  Songs about the Father's great love for us, praises to God for the resurrection, and worship from the body of Christ filled my heart full. Even as I lifted my voice and offered myself to God, there was a bittersweet ache as the shadow of death lingered near.  There were no more medication options.  Hospice was coming this week. What brings a dying man to church?  Every move took great effort.  But he was there.  There w...

My Grandma Mary Ann passed away Thursday, July 28.  God blessed me with a special visit with her just one week previous to that.  Grandma had suffered from dementia for several years.  The last night I saw her she had more clarity of mind.  God is good. Dear Grandma, Our last evening together is one I will always treasure.  It was a gift from God.  I don't know if you knew for sure who I was, but you knew I was family.  We both knew we belonged there together in that moment. I held your soft hand as we talked and shared memories.  I wasn't sure of what all you were telling me about, but your smile and gentle laughter filled the room.  A rush of memories flooded my mind.  So many of them were of your laughter. Leaning against your chair memorizing the beautiful laugh lines on your face, I remembered being a little girl sitting on the floor in your classroom looking up at you as you read books to us.  Our favorites wer...