Friday, November 16, 2007

Sadness

This week marks the 10th anniversary of my mother's death from lung cancer. It is such a surreal thing. It doesn't seem like it has been 10 years, but at the same time, it does feel like it has been that long.

My mother and I were great friends. I was an only child, and my dad traveled when I was a kid. I was always shy, but I did have a few good friends. I think I spent more time with my mom than any other person on the planet. She was a homemaker, so she was always there for me when I got home from school. On my days off from school, we would go shopping together (guess that's where I get my love of the mall, huh?) We would eat dinner together, we would watch TV together, and if I were sick, we would lay in bed all day together. She was the most amazing woman in the world. She never ceased to surprise me with the things she knew.

One day, our car was acting up. She popped the hood, looked at the engine, and determined what the problem was. I don't remember what it was specifically (I did not inherit that trait), but she did fix the car. I was amazed. It shouldn't be a shocking thing. After all, this was the woman who won the powder puff drag race in college. It's how she first met my dad.

I only wish she were still here to teach me more things. We had 26 wonderful years together, and I know I will see her again someday.

PS - Don't cry Maggy. I know you miss her , too. Just remember the good times and that she and I both love you.

1 comment:

Maggy said...

I'm glad I was home alone when I read this, as it is rare that I sob so loudly. My dog jumped off the bed to see what was wrong.

What a lovely tribute to your mother! She was a very special person in so many ways and almost always stayed calm and took things well in stride. She was outstanding during her battle with cancer, so courageous and didn't forget my weakness when they drew her blood. She told ME to look away.

She was a fantastic mother who loved you so dearly, and I'm glad you were so close and have those wonderful memories.

I have a gracious, South American housekeeper about twice a month. She was cleaning the coffee table yesterday where I have a newly framed vacation photo. She asked who the couple was, and I told her. She said the pretty young lady looked like me. So interesting, and it made me think of how your mother used to call you Linda occasionally.

I wish your mom was still here too. I miss her tremendously but cherish the memories.

Love to you always and on this anniversary.