Aunt Martha

Our dear Aunt Martha passed away in July.  She had been dealing with cancer for over a year and her body was done fighting.  She was ready to go, but it doesn't make it easy on us all. 

She was like another mom to me and I am so very thankful that my kids were so close to her as well. She spent time with each of them -noticing their quirks, personalities, and reminding to me to cherish them every day.  

Martha was a safe place for me...she knew everything about us since she lived right next door to me as a child.  I would go to her if I needed help or a break from my house or if I thought maybe I was in a little trouble. 

When we moved to Spirit Lake, I was so anxious to get to spend more time with her.  We spent many mornings and afternoons with coffee, lots of talking, crying, laughing, and of course a treat or two. 

We were blessed to be a part of her care over the past year giving our relationship a whole new dimension. My kids got to see her and spend time with her up until the last few days of her life.  This is a special gift that I will never take for granted.  I truly believe that sharing this part of life- dying-with them as young children was the right thing to do. They got their goodbyes, they cried, said their prayers, and truly saw how ready she was to go meet Jesus.  

I also do not take for granted the moments I spent with Martha in her final days. Sitting with her in the hospital and her home just the two of us...those final conversations will be with me forever.  

This beautiful plant was given to us by our friends.  As soon as I saw it at the wake, tears filled my eyes.  The kids and I planted Martha's flowers for her at her house each Mother's day. It was our job to water and care for her flowers in her front yard and they took that job seriously. 
So, we have this special plant in our yard now that will always remind us of how Martha lives on.  She lives on in the stories she told us over and over again, they way she was kind to everyone no matter what, the way she made my kids feel like they were the most special little people in the world, and in our memories of her humor and laughter.