five years ago today....

i lost my mama.

i was 29.
she was 50.

i feel like i'm through the worst of the heartache, although i know it will always linger..  there are times when my breath still catches in my throat as i catch a glimpse of her in my own reflection....or in a glance at spidergirl who looks so much like her. and there are still times when i can't hold back the tears like when i see a daughter walking side by side with her elderly mother.

but mostly, the memories are sweet and the tears are few.  my heart doesn't feel as broken.

and even though i didn't believe it before, time does heal the wound....a little bit anyway.

and i'm really thankful for girlsfriends like Suzi and Sherry who have been there to listen over these past 5 years.  and my new friend Emma who reminded me yesterday..."Do know that your mom lives on in you. The things you teach your children and many of the stories you share, are HER experiences. And HER stories too."

so, thank you sweet friends.

i think my mama would be proud of where i am today.