A Rose by Any Other Name is Mom

Dear Rose (Mom), I love you. You have been so sweet and kind to me. Welcoming me into your home for the first time when I had teal green hair. Trying to stuff me with hot dogs. It was a nerve wracking day for me, but I was so relieved after I left. It seemed that you really liked me. I was so happy. And now you’re gone. I should know by now that everyday could be the last…but I don’t like to admit that sort of thing. I don’t want to live my life worrying if today is really the end. But now you’re gone. Well, physically gone. I am sure that you will be visiting us from time to time..I just hope that it’s soon and often. I miss you so much already. I really wanted the kids to see you one more time. I know Gene wanted to have one more Thanksgiving with you. I just want you back. This is so much harder then I thought it would be…I am having a hard time finding the right words… You were delightful. I can’t imagine anyone not liking you. You always had a smile on your face, and kind words to say. And your face would just light up when you saw your grandchildren…. My children. My children love you so very much. Phoenix has been asking to see you. He wants to go to your house. He just loved getting a new hot Wheels (or 3!) from you in his little basket every time we went there. And Rhiannon loved to have you read to her. Loved it. And I just loved watching. “A you’re adorable…B you’re so beautiful…”  I will never hear that song without thinking of you. I even loved to fluff your Christmas tree…and as Gene could tell you…I hate fluffing Christmas trees. But for you, anything. I loved to see how happy you got when I had finished. I loved being your “Tree Fairy.” My one regret is not having more pictures of you with us. Where are they all? I thought I had more…I must have overlooked them. Please forgive me. And I can’t believe I am about to type this…but I will miss taking what I thought would be a bite of scrumptious cake, and it turning out to be…frozen. I would do anything to eat one of those frozen cakes right now. You never remembered to thaw them out. I wish I had one now… Again, I love you. You will always have such a special place in my heart. You were the sweetest, most gentle woman, and my kids really, really adore you. Please, come visit us soon. I know that I have more to say…but it’s just too hard right now… I promise I’ll talk to you soon. I love you, Mom.       RIP 10/31/10