Friday, November 20, 2009

Absence makes the heart grow fonder . . .

Just another cliche -- "absence makes the heart grow fonder" -- a combination of words that I've heard so many times before that I seldom even stop to think about what they mean. But I'm thinking about them today; the thought is just in my head.

On the surface I could tell you that there's no particular reason I'm pondering this phrase today. But so many little things (and some not so little) have happened over the last couple of weeks that I'd be lying if I claimed such a thing.

My son came home to visit and has since returned home to North Carolina. He's been in the Air Force 10 years now, yet it's never gotten any easier to say goodbye to him. He only returned home on Monday and I miss him already. I wish that my daughter-in-law and grandson had come too, but that didn't work out this time. Just means that grandma has to go visit them again SOON! My grandson, j, who is 15 months old, loves to talk on the phone already. And he has so much to say! Yes, grandma must go visit soon.

My father-in-law passed away a week ago. He was truly one of a kind. He was retired Marine Corps and retired law enforcement after that. We shared the same birthday, which is in two weeks. It certainly won't be the same. His funeral is tomorrow, and it happens to be the day my mother died. I miss both of my parents more than ever.

And I have missed you all too. I have missed hearing your stories and sharing your lives, and I've missed sharing mine with you. But that's the thing about good friends - you can always pick right up where you left off. It's like you've talked every day and never missed a thing.

So I'm going to go see what's new with each of you and to get caught up. Hugs to you all.

7 comments:

  1. oh Janet, so sorry about your father in law, these things are never easy on the soul, hang in there, and I hope you get to visit your grandson soon, that will make you heart smile a little,
    love and hugs

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  2. Very happy to be picking up with you here, Janet! :o) But how very sorry I am for your loss...all your loss--losing your father-in-law now, your parents, and saying goodbye to your son, which can feel like loss something. Grief id never easy. But we never completely lose those we love as long as they remain alive in our hearts and minds. Keeping memories alive can help, and talk about those who have gone before us. I hope you will find comfort in the love that surrounds you by family & friends. Thinking of you all at this time and sending ((BIG HUGS))

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  3. I'm sorry to hear about your father-in-law, and the connection between the dates as well. But amid all your grief, the joy and love you have for your wonderful little grandson shines through this post like a beacon - that is so inspiring.

    Welcome back! It's nice to see you again :-)

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  4. My heartfelt condolences! So sorry to read that you are going through a difficult time.
    I feel so lucky to have both my parents. Although I speak to them every day on the phone I miss seeing them.
    Wishing you strenght for tomorrow and a big hug!
    ♥ Jeannette

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  5. Ah honey, I'm so sorry....my father in law died 2 weeks ago. It's very hard. I will be thinking of you and your FIL on 'our' birthday...

    Hugs xxx

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  6. I am so sorry to hear about your loses. I have missed reading your blog lately, but haven't found much time to do mine either. I, thankfully, still have my mother, but have been with her round the clock, almost, for the last 15 days. She's in the hospital for a surgery gone complicated. I am so blessed that she is still here. My father and both in-laws are gone. Miss them the most when I hear or see something they would enjoy. God be with you.

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  7. Sorry to hear about your father-in-law. He will never be too far. He will always live in your heart like your mother does.

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