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Dedicated to my mom

by Sharon Lathan
I had several ideas of what I was going to blog about this time around, but before I could decide on one and begin writing they were pushed out of my mind. The reason is a tragic one: My mom lost a nearly 20-year battle with numerous illnesses this past Friday. Some of you may recall that we almost lost our mom in July, prompting my entire family to drive 18 hours to New Mexico from our home base in California. My brother and his family did the same, coming from Florida. By God’s divine grace and mercy, mom fought off death once again. It gave us a chance to spend time with her in a positive atmosphere. We all knew it was more than likely our last visit, but anyone who has lost a loved one knows that even after a long illness, it is still a shock.

So, I hope I am forgiven for not writing a humorous or enlightening essay. Instead, please allow me to dedicate this column to the woman who raised me, most of the time single-handedly. She was beautiful, loving, cheerful, brave, optimistic, a creative artist, generous, and so much more. I owe her my life. And I will miss her. My mom, Marge Shelly.



Thanks. And, because life does go on whether we want to curl up in a ball and cry or not, I am carrying on with a pre-arranged two-day discussion of Loving Mr. Darcy: Journeys Beyond Pemberley over at my blog, Sharon Lathan's Darcy Saga. All day today and tomorrow I will be hanging around the computer to chat about my newest novel. If you have read it and have a burning question or comment, pop over and join in. Hope to see you there.

Comments

  1. I am so sorry, Sharon, for your loss; my heart goes out to you and your family.

    What beautiful photos! I'm wishing you strength and peace across the miles.

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  2. Sharon,
    It's very hard to watch someone you love gradually deteriorate right in front of your eyes, and I know just how tough it is to lose a parent. I took comfort in knowing that my parents weren't suffering anymore. I hope you can, too.
    Your mother was a lovely woman, and I know you will miss her very much.
    Hugs,
    Cheryl

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  3. Sharon, sending cyber hugs. I'm so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a very beautiful lady.

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  4. Good morning everyone. Thanks for the cyber hugs and kind words of condolence. It is amazing how much that helps.

    I do know mom is in a better place, at peace, and pain-free. After so many years watching her slide downhill, that is indeed a very comforting thought. I still hate that she is not in my world at the end of a telephone line, but knowing she is in heaven (and that I will see her again someday) keeps me from overwhelming sadness.

    Thanks again for the wishes and prayers. I am very blessed to have so many wonderful people thinking of me and my family.

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  5. Sharon~

    What a beautiful blog dedicated to your mom. I'm so sorry for your loss.

    Hugs....Robin

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  6. Sharon,

    Words are always difficult at a time like this. They never seem to say enough. May God, family and friends give you comfort.

    Blessings,
    Amelia

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  7. So sorry to hear of your loss. Your mother's pictures are beautiful. Your in our thoughts Sharon.

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  8. My condolences, Sharon. You are so right -- no matter how prepared you think you are, these things are a shock. Take care of yourself!

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  9. Sharon,
    What a lovely tribute to such a wonderful woman. I´m very sorry for your loss but am happy you mother found her peace.

    My thoughts are with you and your family,

    AC

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  10. Sharon,

    What a wonderful post to share with us an amazing woman! You and your family are in our thoughts.

    Danielle

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  11. Hugs, Sharon, on your loss. The pictures are beautiful and will help you with all the good memories. Here I am in tears over it at work during my lunch break. My heart goes out to you.

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  12. This is beautiful, Sharon.

    You have so many memories and that's what counts. I know that's what's helped me since my dad died 11 years ago.

    Hugs,
    Linda

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  13. Sharon, I was so sorry to hear about your loss. This is a beautiful tribute to your mom, and I have no doubt, after meeting you, that she was a wonderful woman. Wishing your family comfort and peace.
    Big Cyber-Hugs,
    Kendra

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