11/24/2025
Today marks 25 years since you have been gone.
I remember the moment I walked into your hospital room and you looked at me as you took your last breath. It is a moment that has stayed with me ever since.
I remember growing up quickly and having to navigate life on my own. It is a scary world to be in when you are not sure where to turn. Dad did his best to help, but the pain was and is still there during holidays and celebrations. I miss you more than words can say.
Growing up in my adult years, it has been hard to use my words. I turned to the music you loved and introduced me to, like Celine Dion and Barry Manilow. I wrote poetry to help put my feelings on paper.
I used creative arts to express myself through beads, paper, and paint. It is something I inherited from you, and I am grateful for that part of us. I am always creating something, and in those moments I feel closest to you.
As I move through adulthood, especially with the health challenges I face, I often find myself wishing you were still here. Your presence would have brought so much comfort and clarity. Some parts of my life have been hard because of the people and situations around me, and I know your love would have made those moments easier to carry. I think about that often.
I always feel like you are near me when I see a butterfly fly by. Sometimes it is a bird instead, showing up at just the right moment. Even when I visit your resting place, there is always something that seems to find me. I take it as your way of reminding me to keep going. It brings a small smile to my face and gives me hope, comfort, and strength. In those moments, I feel you with me.
I love you and miss you very much, Mom. Forever and always in my heart. ❤️
