Fear Not

Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don't be afraid. 

(Frederick Buechner)

I Love You Mom

I stopped to get a few cold drinks, my thoughts were high and gay.... 

I soon felt sad and so alone, the sign read 'Mothers Day'.

'For being there when I need you'....

'You always care so much'....

'You always know what I need most'....

I looked, but did not touch.

I wandered off into the woods, where I sat among the birds....

I miss you Mom, so very much, it's hard to find the words.

You took a piece of me with you, on that cold and painful day....

You'll always live inside my heart, with more love than I can say.

Family

Having a place to go - is a home.  Having someone to love - is a family.  Having both - is a blessing.  

(Donna Hedges)

Happy anniversary to my dear husband of 32 years, and happy birthday to our beloved companion Phoebe. The best family anyone could ever wish for.

Tell Me You Love Me

Mom and her puppy- circa 1942

He puts his cheek against mine
and makes small, expressive sounds.
And when I'm awake, or awake enough

he turns upside down, his four paws
in the air
and his eyes dark and fervent.

Tell me you love me, he says.

Tell me again.

Could there be a sweeter arrangement?
Over and over 
he gets to ask it. 
I get to tell.

(Mary Oliver)

For What Remains

So perfect is his voice. The call of the loon tugs at my soul, and reaches across the vast miles of the place called loss with such clarity.  My wounds, still so fresh and new and sharp, open up to his echoing yodels. 

It is so beautiful and painful at once, this wailing voice that takes the place of my own, as I am yet rendered silent. 

My tears flow as a river, for what once was.. and for what remains.