Words

I have always found comfort in words. Reading them, writing them, hearing them, and dissecting them. I'm pretty certain I was the only one in my high school class who was regularly reprimanded for submitting papers that were too long. When I needed a self confidence boost a few years back, my solution was to start this blog - a place to write words. And today it was words spoken and written by friends and family that carried me through. Thank you to everyone in my life who has reminded me that I am a mother on this day that has been looming over me like a storm cloud for weeks now. I am humbled by the understanding and empathy poured out to me by so many people. As much as I love words, I don't think I could possibly convey how healing it is for my soul. The thoughtful Facebook messages, texts, blog comments, and e-mails really helped keep my head above water this weekend. And the following just blew me away:

Flowers from Randy's parents with one of the kindest and most impactful messages I've ever received.





A gift from my parents filled with healing words - some that I'll share here and some that I'll keep for myself. The card that accompanied the gift made me cry immediately - but its a cry I wanted to have and a card I'm SO glad I got.



The card came with a couple of very thoughtful gifts, one of which featured more healing words. This necklace, accompanied by  this message:





My oldest friend, Mandi, sent me this card (and a little hope pocket charm), which is so refreshingly straightforward with no trite promises or cliched platitudes.



Perhaps though, my favorite words from this card were the ones she wrote inside which I hope she doesn't mind me sharing here: Mother's Day must feel like getting kicked in the emotional nuts. Yes - it does - and I'm so lucky to have friends and family who get it.