It has been a difficult month here at TTL. My mother passed away in November. She was healthy, active, and fit until 2 weeks before her death. We expected her to live well into her 90's just as her parents did. Her loss is deeply felt by all who knew her. We had a beautiful memorial service for her last week, with memories and readings by friends and family, and songs from my sister (she blows me away every time I hear her sing), as well as Sofie & Anders. I have spoken of my mom quite a bit on this blog, and I don't really have it in me to do a lengthy post about her now. I will simply say that who I am - everything from my creative life to how I parent, directly results from my mother and the accepting, highly creative, loving home that she provided. Now, if you'll indulge me, a few photos.
With my dad. Could there be a more adorable pair?
Knitting (looks like colorwork to me) circa 1953.
Surrounded by her grandchildren in the summer of 2001. These kids all hit the jackpot in the grandma department.
With the first of many well loved (and spoiled rotten) family cats. Mid 1950's.
With my sisters and I at her 80th birthday celebration.
A quilt that she finished this fall.
Taking a break from dividing daylilies in the beautiful garden she created with my dad. Yes, she does have a beer in one hand and a shovel in the other.
I'm so sorry for your loss. She sounds like a wonderful woman.
Posted by: sprite | December 10, 2012 at 03:40 PM
I'm very sorry over the loss of your mother. Sounds like you have so many of her wonderful qualities. It's so tough when you lose a family member who has so much living left to do! Thinking of you all.
Posted by: Kathode Ray Tube | December 10, 2012 at 03:45 PM
What a great mom!!! My thoughts are with you.
Posted by: Diane Tetreault | December 10, 2012 at 03:51 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss, K. I hope these memories help to comfort in time, but until you're ready for that, be raw and feel it. You have a family that can hold you up.
Posted by: Melana | December 10, 2012 at 03:51 PM
Your pictures say it all.
My sympathies.
Posted by: Cornflower | December 10, 2012 at 03:51 PM
Oh K, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Posted by: anne | December 10, 2012 at 03:54 PM
What marvelous pictures. She has a fantastic smile, and she and your dad are, indeed, a wonderful couple.
There is a blessing in a quick passing, but the shock is hard. I am terribly sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Ruth | December 10, 2012 at 03:56 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing the lovely family pictures.
Posted by: Allison | December 10, 2012 at 03:58 PM
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Your photos are a wonderful tribute to your dear mother. She sounds like she was a wonderful mother.
Posted by: Savannagal | December 10, 2012 at 03:58 PM
I am sorry for your loss, Kirsten. I hope you find the comfort you need from those who love you and through your memories.
my best, warming wishes ~
annri
Posted by: annri | December 10, 2012 at 04:07 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss, Kirsten. She sounds like an exceptional mother (and person). Thank you for sharing these pictures.
Posted by: earthchick | December 10, 2012 at 04:10 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Jennifer | December 10, 2012 at 04:10 PM
I'm so sorry, Kirsten. She was beautiful, and sure to be missed by all for a long, long time.
Posted by: Vicki | December 10, 2012 at 04:15 PM
So sorry to hear you lost your mother. My sincere condolences to you and your family. I wish you all the strength and love you need rigth now.
Posted by: Renee | December 10, 2012 at 04:17 PM
I am so sorry, Kirsten. She sounds like a wonderful woman, mother and grandmother. May her memory always be a blessing to you and your family.
Posted by: Kathy | December 10, 2012 at 04:20 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss Kirsten. Your mother's spirit and zest for life shines through in your photos. You resemble her ver much. Hugs
Posted by: Aileen Sitero | December 10, 2012 at 04:23 PM
Peace, K. What a woman.
Posted by: JulieFrick | December 10, 2012 at 04:41 PM
So very sorry to learn about the loss of your mother! Thank you for posting the beautiful photos and memories.
Posted by: Candace | December 10, 2012 at 04:44 PM
What beautiful post and even more beautiful mom. You captured such a wonderful spirit in the photos you chose. Going through life with a beer in one hand while gardening with the other sounds like a metaphor for how I'd like to live.
PS wow you look like her, especially her smile!
Posted by: gale (she shoots sheep shots) | December 10, 2012 at 04:50 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss. She sounds like an amazing Mother and Grandmother. I lost my Grandmother quite suddenly last year and it's still a little difficult. Makes us remember to savor every moment we have.
Posted by: Michelle | December 10, 2012 at 04:51 PM
So very sorry for your loss! What beautiful pictures -they tell a wonderful story of her!
Just be thankful for her,and try to enjoy holidays with your family. I' m sure she would want you to!
Posted by: Kathy Fullerton | December 10, 2012 at 04:54 PM
A beautiful woman who had a beautiful life. All my best to you and your family, Kirsten.
Posted by: Minty | December 10, 2012 at 05:25 PM
i'm sorry about your mom. your photos of her are so lovely.
Posted by: maryse | December 10, 2012 at 05:26 PM
A beautiful post sis. I'm sure you cried while you were writing it as I did while reading it. We sure were lucky to have her as our mom.
Posted by: Lisa | December 10, 2012 at 05:28 PM
What beautiful memories you shared with us. My deepest condolences.
Posted by: Joan | December 10, 2012 at 05:41 PM