A lot of time has gone by, and yet, it really doesn’t feel like that long.
When someone that is close to you and you love dearly isn’t there anymore, there’s usually a void, a feeling of emptiness inside.
This past weekend, we were over at Mom and Dad’s house to visit, and still, to me, it feels somehow like Mom is still there. Perhaps she’s taking a nap upstairs. Maybe she’s downtown running errands, but the house still feels warm and comforting. Like her presence has never left.
I still expect her to come downstairs when we sit down for dinner. I just know she’s going to step out the back door as we sit outside enjoying the weather.
I know she’s really not there.
But if there’s one thing that I am happy for, it’s that Dad has somehow kept the house as it was when she was with us. He, in the usual stoic Koral manner, goes about his business, which includes moving furniture, spot-cleaning and doing a bit of gardening.
“I didn’t plant as much this year…” Dad says with a tired smile.
I help him change the storm windows over to screens, remembering all the years I’ve helped him do it when Mom was there. I look over at the patio, perhaps expecting to see her smiling as she sat watching us while sipping on an ice tea.
Today is her birthday. For so many years, we’d go and celebrate it with her. Usually, there’d be a Zingerman’s birthday cake. The family all around, and the most horribly out of tune rendition of “Happy Birthday” sung that would make her cringe every year.
I do miss her. She’s in my thoughts almost every day. I can’t just pick up the phone and call her.
I miss you, mom. Happy Birthday To You.
– Minh
Very, very nicely done Son. You have some of the same ability that your mom had as far as being able to write well. Enjoyed the essence of your comments and the way you expressed them.
Also, very appropriate photos.
And thank you for the complement about my keeping the house such that you can still almost feel her presence.
I agree with Ken, this was so beautifully written, it sure gave my heart a tug.
Happy Birthday, dear Mary. Miss you and thinking of all of your family as they honor your special day.
Beautifully written, Son. Your mom would love it. I miss her, too. Happy birthday, Aunt Mary!
Thank you, Son. Thank you for sharing this beautiful expression of your love. Cathy
Son, reading your thoughts I smiled & wept. Mary was The Rock, the softest most comforting rock. I too want to call & talk with her. She is there in the family home amid the memories, I pray they bring you all comfort. You did a lovely piece to commemorate her.
I miss her too. She lives in our hearts. You wrote a fitting and lovely tribute.