[Impurrfect]

(((Kim)))

It takes a while, but it does get better. It never goes away, though. My mom died almost 17 years ago, and on mother's day, when I was trying to find a card for my stepmom, every card I picked up would have been perfect for mom. I cried all the way to work.

My mom was my best friend, and I truly thought I would wither up and die after she died.

There's no way to get around the grief, but through it. I knew all about the stages of grief, but didn't realize dad and I would be going through different stages at different times. I always loved him, but we weren't that close (like we are now). It was hard when all he wanted to talk about was the night she died, and I just couldn't take it, but we got through.

I hope you can find some time to yourself to just feel your feelings. I know it's hard now and they seem overwhelming. I didn't think I could ever think of my mom without crying, but most of the time now it's her laughter I think of and how silly she could be. I still cry, and there are days I'm mad as hell because she's not here. But I know she IS with me because she's in my heart and my memories.

Sending you lots and lots of hugs and prayers!

Amy