March 23 is a day full of emotion for me. Today it has been 7 years since I lost my mama. I can't believe it has been that long. And I cannot believe that a person who was such a large presence in my life and in the lives of everyone around her is gone. And yet - her presence remains with me in so many ways - in my sisters, in my children, and in the way that she taught me how to live.
I love this picture because it reminds me of how much fun she always had. To me, life at the Thompson house was always a party! She lived each day with joy and laughter.
My mama loved the beach. We went out to the beach early in the morning and stayed out there until late in the evening, so that we could soak up every bit of fun from our vacation - - - even at nap time!
This one is from one of our many New Year's parties. I was (and still am) such a homebody! Most people wanted to go out for the holiday. I just wanted to stay home and do stupid stuff like shoot silly string in the basement with my parents and their friends!
One of the greatest gifts my mom gave me was that she went to summer camp at Carolina Cross Connection with me every year. That is where I learned so much about faith, about service to others, and about living life with the purpose of serving God. It is where I met my husband and so many of the friends that I have to this day. She loved working with teenagers and serving others. She was an example to me and to so many others of a life well lived.
Along with faith and fun, family was of the utmost importance to her. This is what we looked like when she passed away 7 years ago. From time to time I wonder if she can see us now. . . . . 2 more sons-in-law, a grandson, four more granddaughters, and two more grandchildren on the way, and I find it hard to understand why we lost her so young.
The reason this day has so many mixed emotions for me is because a few years later - - - - this sweet girl was born on March 23. It seems so strange to me that she was born on the day that my mama passed away. But Emma seems to have inherited her grandma's sense of fun! She brings the party with her wherever she goes.
Happy Birthday to my dear sweet (crazy) Emma!!! You bring joy and laughter and fun into our lives every day!
Amanda, WOW... you look so much like your mom. From the way you speak about her, you must have most definatley taken after her. You are one of the most kind and caring, good-hearted people I know... seems like your mama was that way too:)) I think it's amazing that God would bring such a special, joy-filled gift in that precious Emma, on a day that may otherwise be grief filled. Happy birthday to sweet Emma.
ReplyDeleteWe love y'all!!!
Your mother would be so proud of the wife, mother, and friend that you are today. I believe she must be the one that gave Emma that sweet sparkle in her eye. We love you all!
ReplyDeleteYour mom was such an amazing woman. She brought joy to everyone around her. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. I had never thought about it before but Emma really does have her spirit doesn't she! Happy Birthday Emma. May your life be filled with as much love and happiness as your Grandma's!
ReplyDeleteHey Amanda! It's Melanie (Novak). Your mom was such a wonderful lady. I remember lots of fun times at your house at parties and sleepovers. I'm really sorry that you lost her so early but I'm happy that you have such a joyful event to share in her passing.
ReplyDeleteI never had the opportunity to get to know your mother very well, but her smile and the warmth she shared with others made me always want to be near her if we were at a common gathering. I do see her smile in you and her joy in Emma.
ReplyDeleteIf she can see you all now, I have no doubt that she continues to be joyful for the lives you all live in Christ.
I miss you my friend!
Beautiful post...Happy Birthday sweet Emma!
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