My last poinsettia from Mom
February 8, 2011 | Birthday,Family,Holidays
This was the last poinsettia I’ll ever get from my mother on my birthday. She and my father had been doing it since I was born. Then, after Dad died, it was Mom.
See, I was born in December. Ten days later, they had me in church for baptism. They had poinsettias on the altar that Sunday. And they sang something about roses … oh, I don’t know. She’s told me the story a dozen times, and she told my children the whole story again last birthday. I didn’t ask questions. Nor did I write any of it down. I just know that my birthday and poinsettias have always gone together.
Now? Not so much.
Posted by Becky @ 11:17 pm
February 9th, 2011 at 8:39 am
Just found your site through a friend’s site. So sorry you’ve lost your mother. Mine passed 9 years ago now and I still miss her every single day.
Blessings to you and your family.
I see you’re reading YEAR OF WONDERS. I loved that book. And I’m glad I found another “library” to check out.
February 9th, 2011 at 9:13 am
There’s a book on my bedside “to read” pile that my mother gave me for Christmas the last year that she was up to Christmas presents. I may never read it.
February 9th, 2011 at 11:53 am
Grief becomes tangible….For me, it was my mom’s recipes. I kept every one that I could find in the chaos of my sister’s basement. Some of them vividly recreate cherished memories; others vividly recreate the desperation she must have felt about 5 p.m. on some weeknight long ago. I mean, really: carrot balls? She tried ’em all.
Thinking about you, Becky.
February 10th, 2011 at 8:13 am
You’ll always think of her fondly when you see poinsettias. Just as Christmas trees signal Christmas, this plant will be a reminder of your mom in years to come. Right now, your grief is very fresh and it hurts. Hoping that your good memories bring you peace and comfort.
February 10th, 2011 at 8:39 am
Hi Teri, thanks for stopping by and leaving your kind words. I finished Year of Wonders … I’ve just fallen behind on everything. What an amazing book!
February 10th, 2011 at 8:43 am
I hear ya, Maggie.
February 10th, 2011 at 8:44 am
Thanks, Tracy. Carrot balls? Should I ask? ;)
February 10th, 2011 at 8:45 am
Thanks, Cindy. You’re right.
February 10th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
I used to burst into tears every time I saw an old Volkswagen pop-top camper. Now, I smile and recall all the great camping trips my family took when I was growing up. Peace will come one day. Hugs. KTC