Mid-morning, abruptly the weight of my mother’s recent death lies on me, a physical presence, as if she’s leaning on my shoulders. It’s 21 days since she passed, days and nights crammed full. Like most mother and daughters, my mother and I had a relationship filled with 10,000 things and more. Again, today, on the eve of a short journey, I pack my laptop and books. I vacuum and mop and talk and talk and talk with my daughter.
Rain falls all day, so chilly I light a fire to the intense pleasure of my two cats. A year ago, my youngest and I flew home from Europe, my heart filled with our trip’s happiness. So, too, again, my life unfurls forward with an offer of good writing news. Spring in all her exuberance sings — such sweet joy for us in a northern sphere.
I wander outside. My shoes fill with rain. I stop in at a friend’s house. In her well-lit living room, with her purring cats, we talk about travels and love. Later, as I leave, she leans out the door, and we keep talking about honeybees and blossoms. The rain falls steadily, streaming down the collar of my coat. I have that walk home and more work, but I linger in the billowing fog, the gleaming green, our conversation gently pulling me back into this world, stitching me.
Stony Soil Vermont 
I am glad you have people who are dear to you to share words during this time. The mother-daughter bond is intensely woven. I hope you keep us posted on your writing news…💚
The mother-daughter bond…. Always fascinating, always unique…
I’mi interested to hear of the writing news too when you’re ready. Some things fall away, others come along.
Beautifully written. Left me quiet, admiring you and your gift with words. And memories of my mother, all the love and complications, losing her, and yet having her with me still. Thank you.
Such a complicated world, isn’t it? Thank you for sharing this. My sympathies for your loss, too.
💚
Your article full of sadness made me think about the void left by my mother’s death, which occurred ten years ago now
My deepest sympathies to you. 💛
Thank you so much 🙏💙
❤
A fire, purring cats, and memories shared with a friend. Strong stitches, Brett.
Not so bad….