We had a nice and easy Thanksgiving.  In years past, the responsibility of preparing the entire meal, entertaining the large group of family and friends – while being fun, was Hard work. Tiring work.  You stay so busy that you don’t get a chance to stop and enjoy the moment.  This Thanksgiving we made part of the meal.  We went to a friend’s home where other families came, bringing ‘part‘ of the meal as well.  Potluck Thanksgiving!  It was a Great idea and a Great time.  We were able to enjoy the meal and the company.  It felt easy and enjoyable. Friends have a way of making what could have been a high pressure event, a relaxing and fun time.

Friends do have a way of making things not just good, but better.

On special days, I make sure to wear something of Mom’s.  This Thanksgiving it was one of her necklaces.  Funny how a piece of jewelry can make me feel close to her again.  As I put on the necklace, I thought of the day she got it.

There came a point with Mom’s cancer where we knew that she was not going to win the battle.  In a strange way, I still think that was a gift to us.  Rather than suddenly lose her, we knew.  We were able to say everything we wanted to say.  She was able to go home and visit with everyone.  She left nothing unsaid or undone. The last month of her life was our gift.  I held her close, many times.  Her words were like the scent of sweet roses in the air.  She held Ethan close and told him she would miss him.  She fought hard to hang on for his First Birthday.  She sat beside him at Chuck E Cheese.  She made it.

The moment that really got to me was when she saw her Best Friend in the World, for the last time.  Miss Faye and Mom had been Best Friends ever since I was a young kid.  Miss Faye is a very smart, funny, beautiful and strong woman.  She makes her own rules and can do darn near anything she sets her mind to.  Mom knew this and admired her so much.  Mom and Faye had many adventures through the years.  Thelma and Louise, minus the crime aspect 🙂  When we were little, I remember Mom saying that Faye and her girls were coming to visit.  I, along with my brother and sister, would pace the floor waiting.  As soon as Miss Faye’s car would start down our driveway, we would run to meet it.  Her girls – more like our cousins than friends.  Other times, we would all pack up and spend the weekend at their house.  We did all night karaoke WAY before XBox!  Lots of laughs and memories.  Mom and Miss Faye – the Best of Friends.

But their last meeting was void of the earlier feelings of cheer.  Mom was weak.  Miss Faye was sad.  Both searching for the precious memories of yesterday.  To witness their last time together was almost more than I could stand.  First they talked about superficial things.  Then some memories.  Then the cancer.  Miss Faye is a very spiritual person.  She comforted Mom with her knowledge.  She once again was the strong woman that Mom could ALWAYS count on.  I could see Mom’s spirit lift as Miss Faye talked.  It was amazing to watch.  The two of them had a connection that I have yet to ever see again.  The conversation turned light and there was even a little laughter.  Mom was smiling and it seemed almost like a normal conversation, rather than good bye.  Mom looked at Miss Faye’s necklace and said how beautiful she thought it was.  Without flinching, Miss Faye reached around and took it off.  As I helped raise Mom up from the pillow, Miss Faye put the necklace around Mom’s neck. Once clasped on, Miss Faye then commented on how good it looked on Mom.  They laughed as Mom ran her thin, weak fingers across it.  Mom’s eyes said ‘thank you.’ Miss Faye’s smile – ‘you’re welcome.’

They hugged and said goodbye.  Miss Faye promised to see Mom again on the ‘other side.’  Mom said she would be waiting and looking for her.

Mom slept for a long time after Miss Faye left.  I knew that Miss Faye’s visit was all that she needed that day.  No matter how many people, friends or family, that came to see her, none made the impact of the visit from Miss Faye.

I have seen Miss Faye a few times since Mom died.  It is great to see her, but crushing to see her leave each time.  It is like losing Mom again whenever she leaves. I can’t explain why, but that is how it feels.

This Thanksgiving I spent the time with Freddie, Ethan, Ansley and Friends.

I wore the necklace. I thought of Mom, and shared a wonderful meal with friends.  I also thought about Miss Faye. The very smart, funny, beautiful and strong woman that Mom so adored.  So while I give Thanks for all that God has Blessed me and my family with, I send up an extra prayer of gratitude for Miss Faye.  You brought so much joy to Mom’s life.  I am forever grateful.