There is a beautiful quote that reads… “Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart” (From Winnie the Pooh, by AA Milne) and this week I have been reminded of this.
Some of you knew that my Mum was very ill, and this week she lost her battle. We sat with her in the hospital for several days this week, and watched helplessly as she struggled bravely. On Thursday morning she slipped quietly away.
It is hard to write this post, because finding the right words is difficult. There is so much to say, and so few appropriate words to describe the feelings I have. But there are a few things that I need to say.
The kindness and gentleness shown to our family over this past week has been beyond description. The staff at the hospital and then in the Palliative care unit (Tamworth Base Hospital) went so far beyond what their jobs actually require that I was moved to tears many times. While she still breathed they treated her with such loving care, and many times had words for us to help with the distress we all felt during this time. The rose in the picture above is what they laid on her chest just after she passed. Such a small gesture and so beautiful. Then friends and family who have expressed their heartfelt messages. People who were brave enough to come and sit with us in the hospital room. Folk who have offered meals to my Dad. Friends who offered us a place to stay while in Tamworth… nothing was too much trouble. Visits daily from the pastor, and prayers from church members, and hugs on call. It has been both a distressing but also a beautiful week. I cannot express my thanks enough. My heart is both empty and full.
The week ahead will be difficult for us too… as we prepare and get organised for the funeral. We know that the support of many people and many prayers will get us through the week.
The other thing I wanted to say was how my parent’s marriage has profoundly affected me. My parents believed without question that marriage was for life. They were married for 56 beautiful years, and they were so gentle with each other. Best friends and life partners. It was such a privilege to be part of their family and to watch them together. I never once heard my parents raise their voices at each other. They always put each other first, and still held hands when they were out and about together. My dad always made my Mum a cup of tea in the morning (up until she lost her taste for tea a few years back when Mum went through Chemotherapy) and they prayed together every morning. Pretty amazing really.
In the photo above I am holding my Mother’s wedding ring, which they gave me just after she passed away. She had tiny fingers and I am terrified that it will fall off my little finger (the only finger it will fit on) so I have it on a chain. Such a small but precious reminder of something so important.
Today I sat down to do this little “Memories and More” layout… its a small thing, but incredibly comforting… and I guess a bit of therapy for me too. My dad and my brother and myself all sat down and went through a lot of photos this week, and I am hoping to be able to put together a Memories and More album for him. As a tribute and something precious to keep.
Thank you for your patience with me this week… I will of course get back to posting a bit more often, but probably not immediately. The online shop is still there if you need anything in the meantime.
Love and hugs
Linda D
So sad to read this Linda. Wishing you & Paul & the kids all God's strength to get through the difficult days ahead. It sounds like you've been blessed indeed by the hospital & staff. And what a special relationship your Mum & Dad had – truly amazing. Take care. Hugs xoxo
Linda,
This is such a beautiful tribute to your Mother. The memory layout is a lovely remembrance of her. Thank you for sharing this.