One Year...….

One year ago today Cathy left our lives.  As I look back through Cathy’s journey, it’s hard to believe it’s been a year.  When we lose a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a person who you seek out to give you energy and a positive spin on life, there is a hole left behind that is hard or nearly impossible to fill. 

This past year has been one of joy, sadness, loneness and happiness!  It’s been hard to wrap my head around the events that took place last year that resulted in the loss of such an energetic and loving person that touched so many lives.  I find myself leaving things as they were, if I move or put things away, it feels so final.  One thing I do know, time keeps ticking by, life slows for no one. I also feel that for every “ying” there is a “yang”.  Since last year, Cathy’s son, James was married to his beautiful bride, Brynn and Katie and Ryan gave us Quinn Catherine, Cathy’s 2nd beautiful granddaughter. 

For me, as this time has arrived, I’ve felt almost a desperation for Cathy not to be forgotten.  I think of her two beautiful granddaughters who will miss out on one of the most incredible grandmothers of all time!  How do I make sure they know her!  How do I go forward and make sure she’s not forgotten.….

Then, James or Katie call and I know she’s close by.  These two wonderful kids warm my heart daily.  We talk about Cathy and they remind me where and who they came from.  Although Charley and Quinn won’t have Cathy around in person, they will know who she was and what she stood for and they will be proud, we will make sure of this……..because Cathy is a part of them.

Losing a wife and a mother is heart breaking, but I can’t even image what Cork has felt.  The pain of losing a child, I can’t think of any pain greater to endure.  I know part of Cork died with Cathy on this day a year ago!  But he continues to endure, see the bright side of each day and makes the best of each day.  He continues to live life and enjoys the beauty the world has!  Cork loves his family and I feel honored to part of this clan.

Janette and Brad are rock stars!  Cathy’s sister Janette and Brad were here every day when she was sick and we have become close.  We talk weekly and I will be ever in debt to their commitment and love they have for their little sister!

As I look back over this past year, I’ve have revisited this CaringBridge site.  I am still humbled by all the love given to Cathy at her celebration her life.  I look at the picture with Pybus packed to the gills, standing room only, people packed on the stairs and the crowd spilling out the back doors to the deck.  This picture is truly a reflection of how she had touched so many people.  The love and friendship we felt from all of you will never be forgotten.  Cathy touched so many wonderful people and I feel so fortunate to have seen this incredible tribute to her life….I’m forever grateful.  Cathy left a legacy that few will rival, her energy, her love for her peeps, her lover for her family, her “quirky” and funny stories.  She touched so many in a big way and little way.  She was one tough little blondie that stood up for what she believed and for the underdog.  Cathy will forever be in our hearts….thank you all so much for supporting Cathy and her family and think of her today…..I know she’s thinking of you too!!!

Thank you………………..Nick