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Sorrow, Joy, Bittersweet


My Nana and I, around 1998 or 1999


Victor and I, May 16, 2005

9 years ago today, my Nana passed away at the age 89. 4 years ago today, Victor and I wed in a symbolic ceremony in Zephyrhills, Florida for his Mom who had stopped her chemo and radiation treatments at the beginning of the month, couldn't travel and didn't have much time left. (We wed officially in NJ on May 25, she passed away on June 5th). I miss my Nana dearly as Victor misses his Mom dearly. I am glad to have met Betty. I wish Victor could have met Nana. Now that the sun is setting, I've lit the memorial candle (I bought on B's anniversary). Lighting a special candle in the house or in the garden feels more personal to me now, I used to go to a church to light a candle. (Which I've nothing against and do it if I feel the desire to).

I kept Mom busy until the early afternoon since I know it's usually an upsetting day for her. (It was town garage sale day). Hopefully she's done alright the rest of the day. (I actually don't mention this anniversary to her until it's passed given how she's been in the past on and around this date ~ she doesn't usually go to the cemetery or anything, just stays home and wallows ~ she's actually been relieved in the past to have forgotten it once or twice).
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Unknown said…
I hope your day was a good one, Jo.
Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 11:19:00 PM EDT
Holli said…
I know what it's like to have grandparents who are special to you.....I'm glad that you were able to light a candle for her and remember her in your own way.
Sunday, May 17, 2009 at 9:00:00 AM EDT
Brandie said…
Those are really sweet pictures, Jo. I hope you had a good day.
Monday, May 18, 2009 at 9:27:00 AM EDT
Lora said…
I love that you light candles at home! I do the same thing, and even make a little "altar" around the candle. Pictures, jewelry, letters, etc.

It is so much more meaningful for me to do it that way. I'll be thinking of you and yours the next time I do it!
Monday, May 18, 2009 at 10:49:00 AM EDT
Bloomin'Chick Jo said…
Aaww, Lora, thank you! I do much the same, either on the mantle or on top of the computer desk in our room. I feel a much more personal connection to the act of lighting the candle at home.

Brandie & Cyn, I did have a good day! Spent the rest of the day after Mom went home with Vic.

Thank you Holli!
Monday, May 18, 2009 at 12:03:00 PM EDT
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