Life cycles...

I knew when I agreed to take over moms care full time, the moment would arrive when she would no longer be here with me...with us. I didn't know what that would look like or how I would feel. But as I sat by her bed in the ICU waiting and watching her body prepare her for heaven all I could think about was this precious time I've had with her these past 13 1/2 months.  Not all those moments were wonderful or perfect, but we've had such a special time together...time to laugh and share and make many wonderful memories. I will always count this time with her as one of my greatest blessings.  

Mom it has been an honor to love on you and to serve you.  I made a promise to dad to watch over you in his absence and I've done my best to fulfill that promise.  I love you and will miss you so much.  I think you said it best the other night..."I am sad that I will miss being with you....but it will only be for a short while."  So give dad a hug for me...know how much I love you and how glad I am that God chose you to be my mom.  At 97, you've finished your journey well...you've arrived at your final destination...you are in heaven with Jesus...your "new" forever home and I am "happy-sad"  Happy you are with Jesus...sad you are no longer here with us. 

I am also happy you were able to make the move to our new home and see your bedroom.  One evening you had the clarity of mind to look up at me and smile and say, "I am so happy I got to see my new room".  So am I mom, so am I.  

We will miss her, but she is in a better place and we are happy for her. This cycle of life is part of God's perfect plan... life goes on.  It will take us a while to settle into a new normal but that's okay too...we'll be okay.