Monday, June 30, 2008

Blessings

On Friday, June 27, 2008 at approximately 3:20 am, my Mom returned home to our Heavenly Father. She is at peace and free from pain, free from the cares of this world. I consider this a true blessing. I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt that on the other side to greet her were her parents, sisters and daughter. They welcomed her home with loving arms.

We are blessed to know and understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Atonement and the Plan of Salvation. We will be together again as an eternal family. This life here on earth is not the end. Our loving Savior has provided the way and simply asks us "Come Follow Me".

I have had the blessing of having my parents live with me since February. I have spent many hours with my Mom talking, shopping and spending quality time together. She loved to watch HGTV. She spent the last 5 years being a HUGE example to us, her children. Life hasn't always been easy for her. Even from the beginning she has had health issues. Some things I would have never known if she hadn't kept a journal. I now have a greater understanding of the importance of journal writing and plan to be more diligent in my efforts.

Dad is doing very well. Even better than expected. He does think his children are worrying too much about him, but how can you not worry about those you love so deeply. Today we are dressing Mom, doing her hair and makeup. This is something I have never done before and I am a little nervous. But I know that this is a huge blessing and I'm grateful she has asked me to be a part of it.

Last but not least. True love never ends. My parents were married for 47 years. In February at my niece, Nikki's wedding, I watched my parents dance for the last time in this earthly life. It brought back so many memories of dancing in the front room on Atlantic Street. Then a couple weeks ago at a friends funeral, I watched my parents hold hands as the song, "My Best Friend" was played. I watched them look lovingly into each other's eyes. I not only saw the love and admiration, but I felt it. These are things I will never forget. I will miss my Mom alot! She was one of my very best friends. I could call her and talk about anything. She has always been there for me. I love you Mom!

Christina

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

My Hero, My Mom

It has been a very long time since I blogged. Actually, I forgot my password and couldn't get logged on. There has been so many things going on that I just didn't think it a priority. I recently returned to a full-time job at Cumorah Credit Union. After just two short months as a FSR (teller) I applied and was awarded the job as Real Estate Loan Service Rep. So no more running around like a chicken with my head cut off.

The boys are doing good and looking forward to a fun and relaxing summer. Justin and Kyle are both home for a while. Tanner is getting ready to leave for a summer visit with his Dad in New York.

The main reason for my post is my Mom. She was taken to the hospital on 6-18 via ambulance. The ER doctor informed us that she might not make it through the night. Mom had 103 degree temp and a very bad infection. Well she did make it through the night, but in alot of pain dispite their efforts to get it under control. On Thursday evening Dr. Parik, Mom's oncologist came in and had a very lengthy discussion with her. Mom made the choice to discontinue chemo treatments that night. She said she was tired.

On Friday morning her condition deteriorated dramatically. She could no longer speak or suck on a straw. Then Hospice came in and arrangements were made for her to be moved to Odyssy Hospice. She has been there ever since. Ironic as it sounds, she is in the same room that her mother passed away in. They have made her very comfortable and have taken very good care of her. My Mom is a fighter. She has battled Ovarian Cancer for over 5 years. She has been an example to all who know her that you should never give up. She is, in my eyes a success story. Cancer can do alot of things to you, but it can't take hope away, it can't take your faith away and it can't take love away.

Tomorrow is my Dad's 65th Birthday. I know how much they love each other. They have been married for 47 years. Talk about a true love story. I know no matter what happens, my Mom is going home soon to our Father in Heaven. There she will be greated by her parents, sisters and her daughter, Audrey. She will be in no more pain and has passed the test of this life. Mom, I love you! Thanks for always being there for me and teaching me everything that has made the woman, mother, wife, sister and friend that I am today! I will miss you!