I can’t count the number of times I tried to write a post about today, August 8th. I cannot tell you how many times I began… then deleted.
Today is the first anniversary of the death of my mother-in-law, Flo… and the 34th anniversary of the death of my father, Bill. It is ironic and sad and somehow relieving and even OK that the 2 saddest days of my life happened both on August 8th.
I dreaded this day.
But it is now almost over. And it turned out to be a beautiful day. I thank God and Flo and my Dad for this. First, there was a very big swim meet today that 3 of my grandchild competed in. Taylor, Maddie and Andrew. Taylor qualified for finals tomorrow in both the 25 freestyle and 25 butterfly in 1st place. Maddie qualified in 13th place for tomorrow’s 25 backstroke final, and Andrew and both girls will be swimming a relay.
Flo and Bill sent us this day, I am certain. The sun was glorious, the clouds were whispy, the temperature was perfect… and my grandchildren were pumped with energy. Barry and I visited Flo’s grave and placed lovely yellow and purple flowers. My Dad is buried in Boston, and we are confident that Flo will pass along the flowers!
Then tonight, we all went to Flo’s favorite restaurant, Jack’s Family Restaurant, for her favorite meal… steamers, little necks, antipasto, calamari, spaghetti with clam sauce and lots and lots of bread and butter. And beer. Of course. All of our children and grandchildren were there with us, and we ate and drank to Flo and Bill. And I mean ate and drank!
I laughed all day. I smiled a million smiles. I ate a meal and a half. And I felt the presence of angels… all day. All day. I feel the legacy of Flo and Bill each time I look into the eyes of my beautiful grandchildren.
I could cry. And I could smile. I think I’ve done a bit of both today…
I know it never really gets easier, but the memories are such a blessing. That’s what gets me through the anniversaries. My dads is coming up on the 30th. It will be 32 years for me. Sending good thoughts, love and prayers your way. I’m glad it was a good day. And…how proud you must be of those wonderful grandkids. Good luck tomorrow.
You celebrated their memory just the way they would have wanted it, surrounded by family, food and laughter. Good luck today!
From all you’ve said about Flo, I think she must have been so pleased with the way you chose to spend your day yesterday. What a beautiful celebration of LIFE.
Thank you for sharing this. Both Flo and Bill seem like they were great people
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Sharon,
Tony and I returned yesterday at noon from our vacation on Newfound Lake in NH, then hurried off to Narragansett for the wedding of friends’ daughter.
We went to bed late, bushed from lots of driving and wedding festivities. I did not set the alarm.
I woke first around 6:30 a.m., then rolled over for a little more shut-eye, the last of vacation late morning sleeping.
I fell into a deep dream. It was about Flo. She was at the end and all of you were there. There were two rooms. Barry and you came in and out of Flo’s room into the other where all the little great-grand-children awaited you both. I was there, sort of hovering above, just in case you needed me to help with the little ones.
When I awoke, I just KNEW it was Flo’s anniversary. I was not surprised to see this post.
I love you, dear friend. You and your family are special beyond telling.
Before I shut down my computer for the night, I will be looking at your Dad’s purple photo, for comfort and for memories.
God bless Flo and your Dad as they continue to watch over and care for each one of you.
Connie
I am so glad the day was positive for you. Hugs to you and Barry.
What a difficult day it must have been. I’m so glad you found both tears and smiles, and that the memories ( and the signs that your dad and Flo are still around and watching over you) brought comfort.
And how ironic that they both passed away on the same day. My paternal grandfather passed away earlier this year one year to the day of my maternal grandmother’s death (January 3), and that will always be our family’s August 8. What a sad and strange coincidence it is to have to deal with twice the heartache at once. I hope it means that they are all together.