The past couple of months have been interesting from the outside perspective, I've seen tears, heard painful stories, and have seen people cry from laughter at her determination. I've also seen an amazing family sacrifice and give their time to their ill mother, grandmother, mother in law and friend. And they did an amazing job as a team. Working as a team can certainly have it's challenges, but as Sarah dimmed, her family shone brightly. And each and every one of them should be proud to have allowed their mother such a beautiful disembarkment. Last time I sat with Sarah she looked around the room at her sons and her daughter and said so softly to me "They grow so fast," and she paused "...so fast." And it really hit home as my nearly 9 month old sat beside me. She was making sure I heard her. And she looked so closely into my eyes and leaned forward as if she was asking if I did, she then nodded and looked up again at her children, her grandchildren and great grand child. I will always be sure to remember this moment, because for me, after not getting this conversation with my Great Grandmother it was important I truly heard her. On December 30th, 2015 Sarah Brocklehurst passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She celebrated her 83rd birthday on December 19th, 2015 and had a bountiful Christmas with her family. Sarah (or Nan as I got to know her) was a beautiful person who welcomed me into her family. Above is a photo of her and her great grandson (My son, Loxton). In the short time I was able to get to know Sarah I realized a lot about what is important in life. Family. Family is 100% paramount. She was a shield for her children, a source of light, a movie date and a supporter of their dreams and wishes. She was a mother as am I, and I hope to raise my children as strong willed, passionate, loud and determined as hers. The night of her passing I prayed for her and her family, and I hoped she would pass exactly as she did, with minimal pain, with her family. Thank you so much Sarah, you've allowed me another family that I will cherish, if it were not for you and your husband I would not have my son and my husband, and my crazy father-in-law so thank you. You will be missed. Hugs. I hope you enjoy the time with your family, and that you catch up quickly. 

Grave Reminders

There is something about death that inevitably makes you question your own mortality and purpose. It makes you reflect on the people whom you've already lost and makes you blatantly aware of the losses you will likely feel. It makes you remember specific last moments with loved ones, friends, acquaintances and strangers. It begs you to ponder and recount your achievements and opportunities. It makes you hug longer and kiss more passionately. Death makes you cry, laugh, and scared. It makes you feel alive and well - mortal. It's an interesting fact that the only thing that is absolute is the ending of our story. They all end the same, you will be in the room, then you no longer will be. Quite similar to birth the number of people in a room can suddenly change.