For Florence

This is Florence. She was my sweet Mother-in-law, and she passed away December 20th, 2009. She was in the hospital for 3 months before her body just couldn't take anymore infection and pain. She gave it a good fight though. She was like a Mother to me, and since she had never had a daughter (she had 5 sons!), she would tell me that I was the daughter she never got to have. Her and I had a special relationship, and I will miss everything about her....I already do.

When I'm faced with troubled times or a tragedy, I usually dive into doing something to keep my mind busy. I guess we've all got our own ways of coping. And for me....it's making jewelry, and believe me, I've made more than my usual amount this past month! I used to make earrings for Florence every Christmas and on her birthday. I know that she knew she was getting earrings every time, but in her own sweet little way, she was always so surprised. And would show them off to everyone she came in contact with. I have a lot of good and happy memories of her. I'm very sad that she is gone, but at the same time, I feel so blessed to have had her in my life. I know life must go on, but it will be hard without our daily talks and laughs and "I love you's." But I will carry her in my heart always and never forget how she so unselfishly stepped in and took her role as a loving Mother to me...something I needed so badly. And I thank God for giving me the beautiful gift of Florence.


"I love you Mom!"