Gone too soon

This year has claimed another soul too soon. D was a good person. She was boisterous and crazy but so generous with her time and spirit. When my brother married his wife, our family grew by so much more than just one. The in-laws became part of our family and us, theirs. Holidays, celebrations, regular old days. My mom and D became even closer when my mom moved to the beach. She would drive up and they would go off to the beach and shopping. She could drive my mom crazy with the shopping! She took care of her mother who has such severe Alzheimer's that they don't think they are going to tell her: another mother who lost a child too soon. She leaves a sister, two daughters, four grandchildren, and a loving husband too.

Even though I often feel down, if this year has taught me nothing it is to appreciate what I have right now because you never know when it will go away. I am so sad to my very core but I am grateful I was able to have a beautiful baby and be a mother for a short time. I am grateful to be carrying another baby now who kicks me all day long to let me know he/she's safe. I am grateful for a loving and caring husband who makes me smile and laugh every day. I am grateful for family and friends who have helped me through this year. I am grateful to be comfortable; to have enough to eat, a roof over my head, clothes to wear. I am grateful for my health and my healthy soul that keeps renewing itself in spite of me and everything that has happened.