Sunday, August 19, 2007

Remembering Mom


August 21st, 2007 will mark the one year anniversary of Mom's death. It struck me today, that it was August 19th, today, just one year ago, that Mom was last "concious". This very morning, one year ago, my Mom lay in her bed propped up by pillows and enjoyed her favorite activity- watching her baby granddaughter laugh, coo & play on her bed with her. Mom was probably less than 80 lbs, hadn't eaten in days, on Morphine, yet she still had the energy to smile and soak up every bit of Alathea playing beside her. She was an amazing Grandma, even if only for 6 months. God was so kind to allow my Mom to see her first grand child while still on earth. Mom always looked forward to being a grandma. Sometimes I wondered at Gods timing in only giving Mom 6 short months with Alathea- but His ways are perfect! Alathea was a beautiful sunshine in the midst of a violent storm that summer. She was "the best medicine" as Mom would say...and that was true for all of us. Gods ways are always perfect. After a few hours of Mom enjoying Alathea & using all her strength to form short sentences to me like "I love you" & "You are the best daughter", both Mom & Alathea needed a nap. So both Alathea & I kissed Momma good night and I went to lay Alathea down. Little did I know I would never see my dear Mother awake again in this life. She had slipped into a coma and died two days later. I thank God that he allowed me to share those sweet moments with her the week of her death. I'm so grateful that I was able to spend the nights in her room that week, often holding her hand as she has trouble sleeping. I would wake up and find her looking at me...I think she was enjoying every moment, knowing her life would end soon.

So please pray for my entire family this week, and in particular on Tuesday (21st). Pray for my sister (Julie), brother (Rocky), Dad and all of Moms seven siblings who miss her very much. While our hearts & souls are in a good place, we are still grieving the loss of our sweet mother. But, I must add that we are so grateful to God that this is just a temporary goodbye. Mom is in the Heaven, the place she longed for, and where we will be reunited with her again.

5 comments:

Laurie Z said...

I am praying for you Jeanie. That same truth continually encourages me-- His ways are ALWAYS perfect. What a faithful God we serve-- full of compassion and comfort!

Rebecca said...

I remember how your mom would get these bursts of energy whenever she was around Alathea. How even when she could hardly walk, she would be up holding Alathea and loving it. What sweet moments to cherish. I am praying for you this week!

Anonymous said...

You'll be in my thoughts and prayers. I know this will be hard week for you. *hugs*

Unknown said...

Hey Jeanie. I'm praying for God's sweet kindness and comfort for you today.

Denise said...

That is a sweet momory to have with her and Alathea. I wanted you to know I've been praying for you this past week, knowing this day was approaching. You and all your family, really. I love you Jeanie and pray the Lord will continue to pour out compassion and grace to you all as you experience the grief of one your of missing your sweet momma... but rejoicing she has a perfect body & is with Christ now. Love you.