Yesterday I lived one of the toughest days in my 39 years. Yesterday did not go as I planned, but God knew the details of the day. Yesterday I was unexpectedly with my family, and God orchestrated that meeting. Yesterday I lost the most amazing woman I have ever known, and now she is worshiping the King of Kings.
Yesterday morning I received a call that an ambulance was in front of my mom's house. Fear swept over me. I frantically called Chad, called my school secretary, and prayed. As we headed to the hospital, all I could think of was this same moment a little more than 24 years ago. I went back to the day my mom had her aneurism at 39 years old. We had an opportunity to see Mom before she went into surgery that night, a Friday. I remember being so overwhelmed and fearful as a 14 year old. Not knowing what was going to happen. How could I be experiencing these same emotions years later as a 39 year old myself? When we got to the hospital, mom was in the er having a cat scan done. Chay and Dad were there, and Beau and Andi were on there way. As our minds wondered what could have happened, a seizure, another stroke, the doctor arrived with shocking news. Mom's brain was bleeding, and it was terminal. She was breathing and her heart was beating, but she was dying, and there was nothing that could be done. Once everyone arrived, we gathered at her bedside, prayed, and then each spent time alone with Mom.
We were told she might live days or as long as two weeks. We all assumed it would be weeks because Mom is the strongest woman we know, and we knew she wouldn't give up without a fight. We made decisions about her placement, and she was moved to a room. Throughout the day she had many visitors-precious co-workers, friends, and church members. Chad's parents were able to bring Conner and Caitlyn up as well. We enjoyed hearing and sharing stories about Mom.
And then, it happened. The doctor said she passed peacefully. She was no longer with us. She was with Jesus. As Conner said, she was dancing in heaven!
We all prayed selfishly that it would happen quickly. That she wouldn't have to spend her final days in a hospital bed. Little did we know it would happen this quickly. As I said, my mom is the strongest woman we know. But she is also the must humble person-always putting the needs of others first, taking care of her family.
We have peace knowing that she is with Jesus, we know Christ is our comforter, an ever-present help in trouble. But it still hurts. A piece of my heart is with her.
She was an AMAZING woman. She brought joy and laughter everywhere she went. She let Christ's light shine in and through her. She loved raising her hand and praising Jesus. She loved chocolate, and coffee, and cheesburgers plain. She loved her customers at the bank, especially the children that she would sneak candy to. She loved her church, making coffee for everyone, and the ladies in her Sunday School class. She loved books and movies with love stories. She loved her dogs and her neighbor Paulie. She loved football, watching the Cowboys and listening to the Pirates and Raiders on the radio.
Most of all she loved her family. She would do anything for us and wanted nothing in return. She always said she did not want to be a burden to us, and I always tried to assure her that she wasn't. I have been so thankful to have her so close. I am thankful that the kids could see her whenever they wanted.
Yesterday I lost the best mom a child go hope for, a sacrificial, loving, beautiful, funny, mom and friend.
