Today I am joining Friday’s Fave Five again, though it has not been an easy week. My mother-in-law passed away on Monday, and today was her funeral.
Below is the beautiful condolence bouquet. My husband received it from his colleagues
When I look back, there are a few blessings that stand out.
1. Good conversations with my husbandThis week my husband and I talked a lot. About everything that was happening, about how to find our way through it, and about the fact that grief can be complicated. Those conversations were precious. They helped us stay close to each other in a difficult week.
2. My sister’s faithful care
All through these weeks, my sister kept sending messages, voice notes and little signs of care. I felt so thankful for that steady attention.
3. Coffee with a dear friend
I had coffee with a friend who has known me for many years and knows something of our family history. It was good to sit with her in her garden, among the flowers, and speak freely for a while.
In this collage: my diamondpainting (wildflowers), morning coffeer, the stone/rock we received from te hospice, fries on the table, and the farewell at the open grave.
4. Sunshine on the day of the funeral
The evening before, and during the night, there had been thunder and heavy rain. But today, on the day of the funeral, the weather was bright and sunny. It was very hot, but I was so thankful there was no thunderstorm.
5. Diamond painting
I am thankful for my diamond painting. It helps me relax and gives my hands something to do when my mind is tired. Instead of staring ahead and getting stuck in difficult memories, I can let the good memories come too. The dark and the light, side by side.
A little extra blessing: ordering fries from the cafeteria. No cooking, no meal planning, just something simple and easy. On a week like this, that felt like a gift too.
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And a little clip of last night’s thunderstorm to end with. KNMI recorded more than 188,000 lightning discharges, so it really was an exceptional storm. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many flashes behind the clouds... heavy, but spectacular.
Now I’m curious: what were the bright spots in your week?
I’d love to hear a few happy things. 😊
I love that you were able to find such peace amidst a time of sorrow, Aritha. God bless you always!
ReplyDeleteI am sorry for the loss of your mother -in-law. I often find that when things are difficult I can also receive good blessings. One is more sensitively receptive. Warm thoughts and blessings.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry for the loss, but I love how you were covered with peace and found joy during a difficult time. Thank you for sharing. It lifts my soul as it reminds me even in the unknown, rough or hard times the Lord always showers us with calmness and joy if we will take the time to notice and receive it.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear about your mother-in-law's passing. It was good, though, that you have found peace and comfort in small and large things like time with your husband to talk and process the loss.
ReplyDeleteThe flower bouquet is lovely.
I like thunderstorms and lightning.
Have a good week.
I'm so sorry for your mother-in-law's passing, but thankful for the good conversations and God's grace through it. It's nice to have a restaurant or take-out meal sometimes. I have not tried diamond painting, but I have a sister who loves it.
ReplyDeleteA difficult week indeed. My heart goes out tou you and your husband. I am glad you were able to recall good memories too, and to see these little bright spots in your days. Sending hugs
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. In a recent sermon I wrote, I wrote that God blesses us all the time, just by being with us through thick and thin. I'm so glad you were able to discover that in the intimate times you had with family members, your artwork, and more.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry for your loss. Glad you were able to find bright spots and blessings in the midst of a difficult week.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law and I will hold you and your family in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you have found some time to talk with your husband, the special care shown by your sister, coffee with a friend, sunshine for the funeral and the relaxation of your diamond art. Take care and take life gently.