Yesterday was the one year anniversary of Ryan’s death. It’s been a very difficult year with the shedding of many, many tears, questions that will always remain unanswered, and a whole lot of what-if’s. Ryan is finally at peace while all the rest of us are adjusting to a new life without him. I miss him and will forever love him.
Melissa wanted yesterday to be a day of JOY and not a day of mourning. She invited some of her best friends that had stood by her, and with her, during this year…some have been with her since they were babies. They gathered at our house to make up flower arrangements to pass out to others to brighten their day. She bought the flowers and had them delivered to our house on Monday and they were still in the “bud” stage so she wasn’t happy. She, and Tanya, head to our local florist to buy more flowers and return with a lot more plus fern. I thought they all turned out beautifully. After all the flowers were arranged and the mess cleaned up, we had lunch which they all seem to have enjoyed. Sante Fe Stew and cornbread, so what’s not to enjoy?
We began the treck to find people to share JOY with…first was our neighbor, Ms. Mary. She was delighted. Second stop was the Refuge For Women shelter and they were delighted to get them per the director…the residents are protected so we didn’t actually see them. Third stop was back here in Wilmore…we shared JOY with two ladies from our church, proceeded on to the “memory care” unit of Westley Village and it is there that we actually found JOY. We were greeting the people that were “awake” and the first lady was so sweet and so appreciative. Melissa finally ask her what her name was and she proudly said JOY. That brought Melissa much joy knowing this. Once all the flowers were delivered we came back here for dessert…a flourless chocolate torte that was over-the-top delicious.
The day of JOY began here around 10 and ended around 4 but it was a good day of laughter, conversation, tears, and remembrance. We just may get together each year to share JOY with others and it was definitely good for our souls. Now back to our normal life of cleaning the “blue house” to get ready for guest coming in tomorrow.
George has been a little under the weather lately but seems to be on the mend today. I’ve had a bad cough but that’s cleaning up, too. In just 18 days we’ll be on our way to the beach…not that I’m counting…and that will be good for whatever is ailing us.
Have a wonderful week, stay warm, and spread JOY to those you encounter today and think of Ryan when you do it. Love to you all.
Blessings…….