It is with great sadness and a very heavy heart that I write this post today.
I don’t often talk about my private life much here but I wanted to let you know why I have been absent from the blog for the past week (and probably will be for some days yet to come).
A year and a half ago my mother was diagnosed with cancer. It was inoperable and terminal. She was so strong and endured and we were so very blessed to have her in our lives for so long after that initial diagnosis. Sadly she passed away a few days ago. It was sudden and unexpected. Even though we knew it was imminent and we all thought we were “prepared”…there is just never a way to fully prepare for that.
The finality of it. I wasn’t ready. I want to talk to her again. I want to hear her voice. I want to kiss her cheek. I want to feel her arms around me.
There is an incomprehensible hole left behind in her place.
She was a wonderful, beautiful person and mother. Someone who lived life to the fullest.
Always busy, always doing.
Always giving and thinking of others before herself.
Everyone who met her, loved her. She was truly a friend to all and a stranger to none.
I am thankful to have had her as my mother and ever so grateful for all the time I had with her.
I am thankful she did not suffer. And I am thankful that she is now at peace.
I miss her. I will miss her every day that I live. I love her dearly.
We had her service on Monday. The Minister said he had never read this particular verse before for any other but felt it fitting for my mother. I couldn’t agree more.
I may not know you all personally but wanted to let you know, all of you who read, comment, etc. that I consider you a friend.
I will be taking some time to be with my family.
Hold close to you, those you love.
You don’t know me, but I follow your blog. I am saddened for your loss. My prayer for you is that the many memories you have with and of your mother will sustain you through the lonely days and that you will feel her loving arms around you when you are sad because I truly believe our departed loved ones are near us. ~Sheri
Nancy, I am so, so sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet mother. She sounds like she truly was an amazing person. What a beautiful tribute you have written to her. My prayers and thoughts are with your family. Much love, -Karen
My heart goes out to you and your family during this very difficult time. I will continue to have you all in my thoughts and prayers! I love you sweet friend!
I’m so sorry for your loss. I completely understand what you’re going though. I spent two weeks laying on the couch doing nothing after the death of my sister. In time you’ll find your footing again. You were truely blessed to have a close bond with such a wonderful Mother. May your memories comfort you.
I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my dad this past December after he was diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer. He died three weeks later which was a blessing that he didn’t suffer but took us totally by surprise just like your mom. I will hold you in prayer. I have no magic words for you to ease your pain. Just know that thoughts of your mom and the fond memories you have of her will sustain you.
So sorry for your loss…………I lost my Mom several years ago after being a caregiver for several years. You are never prepared and I still miss her everyday along with my Dad. I still pick up the phone wanting to talk to her or ask her a question. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and take all the time you need. WE’ll all be here when you return.
Oh my goodness, Nancy…my heart is aching for you right now. And no, you are never fully prepared, how could you be? I was wondering why you’ve been absent and wanted to reach out as I consider you a friend although we’ve never met face to face. I’m keeping you in my prayers. Only time heals my sweet friend. Surely she is in a better place.
XO,
Christy
I am so sorry for your loss Nancy! My mother had a terminal illness for 10 years and you would think that would be enough time to prepare, but there is never enough time. And you cant keep the time factor upmost in your mind and miss living life with her. Sounds like everyone savored each day, such a blessing. Boy she sure left you a wonderful legacy!!! And you are sharing it with the world, all that she taught you. What a gift for you both!! My mom has been gone 17 years on Tuesday and I still miss her everyday. Just know that everything you do honors her and she is your special Angel now!! My prayers are with you and your family.
I’m so very sorry to hear about your loss. I too lost my mom to cancer 22 years ago and it still feels so recent. You will learn to move on of course but that hole will never be filled. LIke you said you were so lucky to have her in your life when you did and that is what we can be thankful for and hold onto those memories as they will get you through life. Most of all don’t ever forget that she is still with you, you are a part of her and her spirit is in you.
Nancy….I am praying for you and your family. What a beautiful epitaph that shows the kind of person your Mother was; a Proverbs 31 woman is a great legacy to leave. May you feel the presence of God with you as you go through this difficult time.
Nancy,
I feel your pain in the most profound way. It’s been two years since my mom past. There will be times that you’ll find yourself laughing outloud or crying out to God for answers…but know that as time goes on, he gives you the blessing of accepting what HE has put before us while allowing us the grace to go on.
My prayers are with you and your family.
Cece
Oh Nancy,
I’m so saddened for you because I know exactly how you feel. My mother died suddenly from cancer also. I still feel those same things you are feeling; just wanting one last talk, hug, and kiss. Hold her in her heart and your memories of her also. I’m here if you need to talk and wish I could just give you a hug. My prayers are with you sweet friend.
xo
Prayers and more prayers. You will always miss your mother. Do you know that I still want to pick up the phone and talk to my mom? Just remember the great times and you will have a big smile on your face! My mom and I went on a week long cruise 9 months before she passed- and I still tell anyone who will listen about the great time we had and the laughs we shared. My God be with you.
My deepest sympathy and prayers to you and your family on the loss of you Mom. She must have been a wonderful person to have a daughter as terrific as you. God bless you during this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
I lost my Mom over 10 years ago. She had a heart condition. Our situation was similar in that we knew she was losing ground and we needed to be prepared to lose her, but it still came as a profound shock when she passed. I was devastated. Nothing I had experienced prior to that prepared me for the deep sense of loss and loneliness I felt. I think it took about a year and half before I felt somewhat like myself again, but even now, not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. The difference now is that rather than think about the end of her life, I think about her as a person, the things she used to say and do, and all the fun and funny stuff we enjoyed throughout my life. That will happen for you as well. By the way, 8 months after my Mom passed, my Dad followed. It was a one, two punch that had me feeling like the worlds oldest orphan (I was 43 at the time). Anyway….the point of this entire, drawn out post is that IT WILL GET BETTER. I PROMISE. If you can, think of the good things, talk about her, and allow yourself time to grieve. You will be in my prayers – should you need to talk, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Finally, thank you for your wonderful blog. You’re an inspiration! I’ve tried some of your suggestions and they were phenomenal. Come back when you feel ready.
I am so sorry for your terrible loss Nancy. I pray peace for you and your family during this time; that is a beautiful verse and speaks greatly to what a wonderful woman your mother must have been. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers:)
Krista
Nancy,
I was wondering where you were and I am so very sorry for your lose. I know there are no words to make you feel better but know you are loved and cared for by so many. When you return we will be glad to see you. I am praying for you and your family during this hard time.
Hugs,
Sandra
The Adored Home
What a beautiful post, Nancy. I lost my mother over 20 years ago and you are absolutely right, there will never be a day you don’t miss her or think about her ~ I am so very sorry for your loss.
Oh Nancy, I am so very sorry that you have list your precious mom. There is no one like our mom, and I agree that you have list a part of your heart. Please be very gentle with yourself as you grieve. There is no set time or “proper” way to grieve, so just be and do whatever helps you. I will be holding you up in prayer. What a beautiful testimony if your mothers life that the most fitting words are Proverbs 31:10 . You were blessed indeed. Know that you will always be your mither’s daughter, and the heritage she gave you lives on in you and your children. May you feel God’s gentle and strong presence as you walk through the time ahead. He is faithful.
In His love, Lois D in Illinois
I am so sorry Nancy for your loss. I will pray so tightly for you and your family tonight. It is truly so wonderful to hear you speak such amazing things about her. She sounds like a wonderful mother. My heart, thoughts, prayers and hugs are wrapped around you. XOXO
~ Mandy
Oh Nancy…..my heart breaks for you. I knew when I didn’t see you at Haven that something was wrong but I never imagined anything so sad. I wish I could just give you a big hug. I will remember you and your family in my prayers. The loss will never leave you but the pain will get less…..be good to yourself and take your time with life right now……it will still be there when you’re ready……
Nancy, I am so very sad to hear of your mother passing away. Sweet girl take this time to remember all those moments both big and small you and your mother shared. May your tears be wiped away with the comfort of her undying love for you.
Praying for you and your family at this most difficult time.
Oh, Nancy, I’m so sorry. Sending you big hugs from here! Your mother sounds like a wonderful person, and I’m sure you have very fond memories of her to cherish. Praying for you and your family! <3
So sorry for your loss, Nancy. There are never the right words to say, but I lost my mom 1-1/2 years ago and with time it has gotten better. Your mother sounds like an amazing person, how blessed you all were to have her. Prayers and thoughts to you and your family.
This is my first time visiting your website and as I read your most recent post I am moved by your words about your mother. She sounds like a true angel from God, I pray for peace and healing for your family. So sorry for your loss. God bless.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss and my heart goes out to you. Your mom sounds like a wonderful woman and I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through. I know I will take a moment tonight to tell my mom how much I love and appreciate her. If we can take anything from your post it’s to make sure we never take the relationships in our lives for granted, because you never know when those people will be taken from us. There is never a way to prepare for that day, other than to enjoy each day with those we love. I’m grateful for your mom and the influence she had on you because your words, your blog and your projects inspire me.
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear the sad news. I do not know the pain of the lose of a mother, but I understand! Many prayers to you and your family. Smile through the tears and she is hugging you always!
nancy, so sorry to hear the bad news. I am going thru the same thing right now b/c one of my best friends passed away yesterday after a 4 1/2 yr battle with Cancer and like u say you expect it but you r never ready… Remember the good times and share the memories with family and friends.
take care and when you are ready to get back to blogging it can be good therapy…
Sue
Nancy, try to stay strong. How lucky you were to have had such a lovely mother and how lucky she was to have had you. Your mother will be with you forever. Take the time to grieve. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Suzanne
Nancy I am heartbroken to see this news. having lost a father and my niece this past year I ferl your pain and sadness. Each day is a new one that will turn your grief into loving memories. Hugs to you.
Hi sweet friend, you just popped into my mind and I was compelled to come by and say hello. I know you are taking a much needed break so no need to respond. Just know I am thinking of you. xoxo, Sharon
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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
So sorry for your loss ((hugs))
Nancy, what a beautiful verse. I’m am so very sorry for your loss. Truly. My heart is crying for yours and I will pray for you and your family.
God Bless,
-andi
You don’t know me, but I follow your blog. I am saddened for your loss. My prayer for you is that the many memories you have with and of your mother will sustain you through the lonely days and that you will feel her loving arms around you when you are sad because I truly believe our departed loved ones are near us. ~Sheri
Nancy,
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Becky
May God bless you and your family.
Nancy, I am so, so sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet mother. She sounds like she truly was an amazing person. What a beautiful tribute you have written to her. My prayers and thoughts are with your family. Much love, -Karen
Nancy,
My heart goes out to you and your family during this very difficult time. I will continue to have you all in my thoughts and prayers! I love you sweet friend!
Christy
I’m so sorry for your loss. I completely understand what you’re going though. I spent two weeks laying on the couch doing nothing after the death of my sister. In time you’ll find your footing again. You were truely blessed to have a close bond with such a wonderful Mother. May your memories comfort you.
I am so sorry Nancy! I am going to miss meeting you in person this weekend but I know where you must be. My prayers are with you, my friend. ~Sonya
I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my dad this past December after he was diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer. He died three weeks later which was a blessing that he didn’t suffer but took us totally by surprise just like your mom. I will hold you in prayer. I have no magic words for you to ease your pain. Just know that thoughts of your mom and the fond memories you have of her will sustain you.
So sorry for your loss…………I lost my Mom several years ago after being a caregiver for several years. You are never prepared and I still miss her everyday along with my Dad. I still pick up the phone wanting to talk to her or ask her a question. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and take all the time you need. WE’ll all be here when you return.
God Bless you and keep you. May your happy memories of your mother sustain you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Oh my goodness, Nancy…my heart is aching for you right now. And no, you are never fully prepared, how could you be? I was wondering why you’ve been absent and wanted to reach out as I consider you a friend although we’ve never met face to face. I’m keeping you in my prayers. Only time heals my sweet friend. Surely she is in a better place.
XO,
Christy
I am so sorry for your loss Nancy! My mother had a terminal illness for 10 years and you would think that would be enough time to prepare, but there is never enough time. And you cant keep the time factor upmost in your mind and miss living life with her. Sounds like everyone savored each day, such a blessing. Boy she sure left you a wonderful legacy!!! And you are sharing it with the world, all that she taught you. What a gift for you both!! My mom has been gone 17 years on Tuesday and I still miss her everyday. Just know that everything you do honors her and she is your special Angel now!! My prayers are with you and your family.
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
I’m so very sorry to hear about your loss. I too lost my mom to cancer 22 years ago and it still feels so recent. You will learn to move on of course but that hole will never be filled. LIke you said you were so lucky to have her in your life when you did and that is what we can be thankful for and hold onto those memories as they will get you through life. Most of all don’t ever forget that she is still with you, you are a part of her and her spirit is in you.
Nancy….I am praying for you and your family. What a beautiful epitaph that shows the kind of person your Mother was; a Proverbs 31 woman is a great legacy to leave. May you feel the presence of God with you as you go through this difficult time.
I’m sorry to hear about your loss. Nancy you are in my thoughts.
Im so very sorry. I am praying for you today.
My Heart goes our to you… I will keep you in my prayers
Oh Nancy, I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Will you send me your address? katy_lunsford@yahoo.com
Oh Nancy, I’m so sorry for your loss.
It sounds like she’s a wonderful woman, I’m so happy she got to be your mom!
That verse is beautiful. I wish you all the best for you and your family as you go through this difficult time.
Much love,
Kaara
xoxoxox
God bless you and your family at this time of loss. Try to focus on all the good memories that may bring you comfort.
Nancy,
I feel your pain in the most profound way. It’s been two years since my mom past. There will be times that you’ll find yourself laughing outloud or crying out to God for answers…but know that as time goes on, he gives you the blessing of accepting what HE has put before us while allowing us the grace to go on.
My prayers are with you and your family.
Cece
Nancy, I am so sorry for the pain you and your family are going thru.
You and Your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh Nancy,
I’m so saddened for you because I know exactly how you feel. My mother died suddenly from cancer also. I still feel those same things you are feeling; just wanting one last talk, hug, and kiss. Hold her in her heart and your memories of her also. I’m here if you need to talk and wish I could just give you a hug. My prayers are with you sweet friend.
xo
I’m really sorry. There’s just nothing good enough to say when someone experiences such a devastating loss.
Nancy
Thank you for this post. My mom was diagnosed 3 weeks ago. She is currently undergoing tests to determine what her options are.
Prayers and more prayers. You will always miss your mother. Do you know that I still want to pick up the phone and talk to my mom? Just remember the great times and you will have a big smile on your face! My mom and I went on a week long cruise 9 months before she passed- and I still tell anyone who will listen about the great time we had and the laughs we shared. My God be with you.
Sorry to hear about your loss,My thoughts and prayers are with you and
your family.
Dear Nancy,
My deepest sympathy and prayers to you and your family on the loss of you Mom. She must have been a wonderful person to have a daughter as terrific as you. God bless you during this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
I lost my Mom over 10 years ago. She had a heart condition. Our situation was similar in that we knew she was losing ground and we needed to be prepared to lose her, but it still came as a profound shock when she passed. I was devastated. Nothing I had experienced prior to that prepared me for the deep sense of loss and loneliness I felt. I think it took about a year and half before I felt somewhat like myself again, but even now, not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. The difference now is that rather than think about the end of her life, I think about her as a person, the things she used to say and do, and all the fun and funny stuff we enjoyed throughout my life. That will happen for you as well. By the way, 8 months after my Mom passed, my Dad followed. It was a one, two punch that had me feeling like the worlds oldest orphan (I was 43 at the time). Anyway….the point of this entire, drawn out post is that IT WILL GET BETTER. I PROMISE. If you can, think of the good things, talk about her, and allow yourself time to grieve. You will be in my prayers – should you need to talk, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Finally, thank you for your wonderful blog. You’re an inspiration! I’ve tried some of your suggestions and they were phenomenal. Come back when you feel ready.
Sorry for your loss. May your warm memories sustain you in these difficult times.
So so sorry Nancy! My heart goes out to you, and you are in my prayers!
I am so sorry for your terrible loss Nancy. I pray peace for you and your family during this time; that is a beautiful verse and speaks greatly to what a wonderful woman your mother must have been. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers:)
Krista
Nancy,
I was wondering where you were and I am so very sorry for your lose. I know there are no words to make you feel better but know you are loved and cared for by so many. When you return we will be glad to see you. I am praying for you and your family during this hard time.
Hugs,
Sandra
The Adored Home
What a beautiful post, Nancy. I lost my mother over 20 years ago and you are absolutely right, there will never be a day you don’t miss her or think about her ~ I am so very sorry for your loss.
Oh Nancy, I am so very sorry that you have list your precious mom. There is no one like our mom, and I agree that you have list a part of your heart. Please be very gentle with yourself as you grieve. There is no set time or “proper” way to grieve, so just be and do whatever helps you. I will be holding you up in prayer. What a beautiful testimony if your mothers life that the most fitting words are Proverbs 31:10 . You were blessed indeed. Know that you will always be your mither’s daughter, and the heritage she gave you lives on in you and your children. May you feel God’s gentle and strong presence as you walk through the time ahead. He is faithful.
In His love, Lois D in Illinois
I am so sorry Nancy for your loss. I will pray so tightly for you and your family tonight. It is truly so wonderful to hear you speak such amazing things about her. She sounds like a wonderful mother. My heart, thoughts, prayers and hugs are wrapped around you. XOXO
~ Mandy
Oh Nancy…..my heart breaks for you. I knew when I didn’t see you at Haven that something was wrong but I never imagined anything so sad. I wish I could just give you a big hug. I will remember you and your family in my prayers. The loss will never leave you but the pain will get less…..be good to yourself and take your time with life right now……it will still be there when you’re ready……
Nancy, I am so very sad to hear of your mother passing away. Sweet girl take this time to remember all those moments both big and small you and your mother shared. May your tears be wiped away with the comfort of her undying love for you.
Praying for you and your family at this most difficult time.
Oh, Nancy, I’m so sorry. Sending you big hugs from here! Your mother sounds like a wonderful person, and I’m sure you have very fond memories of her to cherish. Praying for you and your family! <3
~Abby =)
So sorry for your loss, Nancy. There are never the right words to say, but I lost my mom 1-1/2 years ago and with time it has gotten better. Your mother sounds like an amazing person, how blessed you all were to have her. Prayers and thoughts to you and your family.
This is my first time visiting your website and as I read your most recent post I am moved by your words about your mother. She sounds like a true angel from God, I pray for peace and healing for your family. So sorry for your loss. God bless.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss and my heart goes out to you. Your mom sounds like a wonderful woman and I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through. I know I will take a moment tonight to tell my mom how much I love and appreciate her. If we can take anything from your post it’s to make sure we never take the relationships in our lives for granted, because you never know when those people will be taken from us. There is never a way to prepare for that day, other than to enjoy each day with those we love. I’m grateful for your mom and the influence she had on you because your words, your blog and your projects inspire me.
~Katie
so very sorry for your loss. may the sweet memories of your mom carry you through this difficult time.
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear the sad news. I do not know the pain of the lose of a mother, but I understand! Many prayers to you and your family. Smile through the tears and she is hugging you always!
Nancy, May God bless you and your family in this time of such a huge loss in your lives.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
I am so sorry for your loss Nancy. I am praying for you and your family. {hugs}
nancy, so sorry to hear the bad news. I am going thru the same thing right now b/c one of my best friends passed away yesterday after a 4 1/2 yr battle with Cancer and like u say you expect it but you r never ready… Remember the good times and share the memories with family and friends.
take care and when you are ready to get back to blogging it can be good therapy…
Sue
Nancy, try to stay strong. How lucky you were to have had such a lovely mother and how lucky she was to have had you. Your mother will be with you forever. Take the time to grieve. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Suzanne
Nancy I am heartbroken to see this news. having lost a father and my niece this past year I ferl your pain and sadness. Each day is a new one that will turn your grief into loving memories. Hugs to you.
Nancy,
I am truly sorry for you loss! I hope you take all of the time you need to heal. Prayers to you and you entire family.
Hi sweet friend, you just popped into my mind and I was compelled to come by and say hello. I know you are taking a much needed break so no need to respond. Just know I am thinking of you. xoxo, Sharon
Hi Nancy, just thinking about you. Keeping you in my prayers Love Joyce and Barry
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!!!