It's hard for me to believe that it has been 2 years tomorrow since mom passed away. I remember the night on Feb. 9th, 2006 that I called mom to tell her I was buying a car...she was always interested in everything I did, even if it was something as stupid as buying a 10 yr old car. When I called dad answered and told me that he had had to call an ambulance for mom that morning. He didn't want to leave her side so he hadn't called anyone yet. I knew something was wrong the moment he picked up the phone.
Mom had a brain hemorrhage which was caused by some blood thinner pills she had been taking since her heart attack just a month earlier. Dad said that they were able to stop the first hemorrhage but a second had started and it wasn't looking good. I can't even tell you what it feels like to hear that. I cried, and then I tried to keep going. I was so sure that she would be just fine. 2 hours later I called back and dad told me that she wasn't going to make it. I was devastated but tried to be strong. I called Kim and Andrew to tell them the news....the hardest thing I have ever had to do.
Early the next morning, Tom and I flew to Montana which is where my parents had been serving a mission for the church. I was so sure that I would be able to see her and introduce her to Tom. I didn't even bring any clothes for a funeral--I just couldnt' believe that it would come to that. We had a layover in Cleveland which is where I was when dad told me that she was gone. I tried to think back on the last conversation I had with mom just the day before. We talked about the wedding plans (Tom and I were getting married in 5 mo.) and we talked about how excited she was to meet him. We were scheduled to go there in April. Mom wanted to talk to Tom on the phone, but I wouldn't let her. I wish I had...but I have learned to not dwell on what I wish I had said and done...that only makes it harder. Instead I just try to live every day doing what I know is right, what she taught me, so that I can be with her again someday.
My mom was a great woman. She was so kind and charitable. She was always going around serving others. If there was something to be done, she would do it. Thats what made her happy. She was so good at showing that she cared for and loved her children. She used to send me cards and letters weekly. In fact, when I came back to NY after her funeral I had a valentines card from her in the mail. She had mailed it the day before she died. Mom taught me so much...she taught me to love my Savior Jesus Christ. She taught me that families can be together forever, and that I will see her again someday. She taught me to love and to show kindness to everyone no matter who they are. She was a woman who truly knew her Savior and loved him. I know that I will see her again someday and finally be able to introduce her to Tom. I love you mom, and miss you so much!
