In three words I can sum up everything I have learned about life: it goes on. ~ Robert Frost

Today marks six months since my mom passed away just about seven weeks short of her 91st birthday.  Some days it feels like forever and some days like it was yesterday.  As I scrolled back through my pictures to find the ones above, I realized life did go on.  I made it through my milestone birthday, her birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s all without having my mom to visit or hug.

I could always count on her to be smiling and happy.  She had such a positive spin on life. The picture of my mom, Lucy, is from 2017 when we celebrated her 90th birthday.  My sister bought her the “Hang Loose” sweatshirt because when anyone asked Lucy how she was doing, she would always answer, “Hanging Loose.”

There is not a day goes by that I don’t think of her or talk to her.  She may not be with me physically, but I can feel her presence in so many little ways.  From the unexplainable  scent of her laundry detergent wafting through my family room to the cardinal that swoops just in front of my car on the way to work, I know she is looking over us.

Although I am sad some days, I try to emulate the way she lived.  She celebrated life every day. I don’t know how this grief thing is supposed to work when it comes to grieving your mother, but I know she wouldn’t want it to take over; she would want me to celebrate her by celebrating life.

Thanks Mom for holding my hand all those times I needed you for a shoulder to lean on, for words of wisdom, or for a good laugh.  Thank you for bringing so much joy into our lives.  I am remembering you tonight with a smile.

#livelikelucy