As my sister-in-law, Carol, said, it is also my father-in-law's birthday. There must be something to that horoscope stuff if two terrific people shared the same birthday.
In my own journey with grief, I found a useful metaphor. I felt like I was running a race in a big stadium, but not only was I circling the track, but as I ran the track was moving forward. And as I ran, I would come to a hurdle--a birthday, anniversary, family holiday. I couldn't imagine how I would get past that hurdle, but I always did. And then, a year later, there is was again. "Well," I would think, "I jumped it before; I guess I can jump it again." And I would. I'm not saying it gets easier, but it does get different.
My dear father-in-law always said that rather than saying yahrzeit for him, we drink a toast on his birthday. So santé, cheers. and l'chaim x 2 for him and your mom.
Dearest Carolyn, We would love to celebrate Emily's birthday by doing lots of things she loved on the list you gave. For one: We just bought a lot of plants and will plant them. Sorry that you spent most of your day in tears, here is a side story that may bring out a little laughter in you--How are about celebrating Emily by throwing a glass of wine on my poor husband?
Thinking of our parents on their birthdays is one of the best memories because it reminds us of all the happy times we spent together and how they made this world a better place. Today is coincidentally my Dad Harold's Birthday as well. He also felt pride with Bastille Day by raising a French flag at Maple Lake at our family's cabin. Hugs.
Happy birthday, Emily! ❤️ Just donated to Evanston Scholars in her honor and will most definitely celebrate her today cuddling kids, watching basketball, and maybe a indulging in glass or two of wine. Love you so much, Fraize - sending you huge hugs and support xxoo
Beautiful post Carolyn. Thank you. We are going to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens on Friday snd will remember her live if gardens and flowers. Friend from Wesleyan and camp Glisson
On our way to the Botanic Gardens to celebrate mom…we know she loved it there. We miss her everyday and feel blessed that she was our treasured friend for 35 years. Donation to Evanston Scholars done! Love you! ❤️
In my own journey with grief, I found a useful metaphor. I felt like I was running a race in a big stadium, but not only was I circling the track, but as I ran the track was moving forward. And as I ran, I would come to a hurdle--a birthday, anniversary, family holiday. I couldn't imagine how I would get past that hurdle, but I always did. And then, a year later, there is was again. "Well," I would think, "I jumped it before; I guess I can jump it again." And I would. I'm not saying it gets easier, but it does get different.
My dear father-in-law always said that rather than saying yahrzeit for him, we drink a toast on his birthday. So santé, cheers. and l'chaim x 2 for him and your mom.
Love,
Carol