Ever the Reminders

Today, I sat on my favorite chair in the living room where the bird feeders are in my full view. As I sat reflecting on our Thanksgiving dinner last night, along came the reminder. A beautiful female cardinal appeared. She sat and finally positioned herself to look in through my window, it felt that she was just directly looking at me, I took her picture and was then inspired to write this post. It has been said that this is one of many signs from our loved ones in heaven, they appear when you need them most. I'll always miss my mother and with every special occasion, I'll always miss her more. But, I'm so thankful for the ever noticeable signs and signals to remind me that she will always be a part of my life even after life. Life after life.

Last night, Tanya, Steve, Caleb, Ryan, Shannon, Charlie, Daisy and Van and Doug were all here. An enjoyable evening. One grandchild missing but I was grateful that no photos were posted. I wish not to be exclusionary regarding our lovely and beautiful Emma. All of my grandchildren are equally important and loved. I do miss having her at family functions. This year, I did have a talk with Ryan about it as it just seems that it is the white elephant in the room. Everyone wonders about it but doesn't know what to say. I hope Emma will always know that she is every bit as special as every one of my grandchildren.  Ryan's words were, 'this is better for Emma'. So, I will not judge, not question and I will accept.

As time races through the seconds, hours, days, weeks, months, years, I am thankful for those special times we have.

Once a parent, always a parent, it is life-long. You never stop worrying about whether or not your kids and grandkids are happy, you look for constant signs, you long for their happiness now and always. Ryan, I hope you're happy. I wonder and look for the signs and sometimes I worry. Choose happiness.

And on this reflection - I merely have a reminder that we always savor those wonderful occasions where family comes together for the laughs, the meals that fill you up and then some, and the great chatter among everyone. And to those specials members who are now our special spirits, thank you for always making your signs so apparent to let us know you too are still here.