Sunday, April 29, 2012

a Sunday in late April

I got up about 6:30 this morning, slung my arms into a cotton robe and headed downstairs to check on mother. I could hear her breathing with the same pattern I have become accustomed to these past weeks, slow and steady. On to the kitchen, with coffee mug in hand I entered the sun room and began my morning's quiet time.

The family stirred and I knew it was time to get a move on if I was even considering attending church service today. I went back into mother's room and opened the blinds as I began talking to her trying to get her awake enough to measure her pain level. She was sleeping comfortably. With the arrival of our private aid we determined we would change and reposition her while she was in this quiet state. After seeing she was sleeping without discomfort, I decided I would definitely go to church, cell phone clutched tightly in my hand.

I entered mother's bedroom after being gone about a span of two hours. Mother's breathing had changed considerably within that period of time. Within two minutes of me walking into the room, mother breathed her last breath. Peacefully, just like Charlotte had prayed.

9 comments:

Vi said...

What a long journey you have been on. A peaceful ending to this one and a start to another. I will remember the first visits I made to her when she came to live in town, and how delighted she always was to meet Witt's wife. I know that my memories of her are very different than all of yours.
Praying for you.

Karen said...

Oh sweet friend, I am so sorry. I am thankful she went peacefully. I will be praying for you throughout your preparations. Sending hugs and prayers.

GretchenJoanna said...

My condolences. May your dear mother rest in the peace of the Lord.

Karen @ Pieces of Contentment said...

Wow, so quick and quiet in the end, a beautiful way to go, in your gentle presence. Hugs and prayer as grace surrounds you over the coming days and months.

Leslie said...

Oh Cathy, my deepest sympathies. I am so glad Charlotte's prayer was answered. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

I would love to talk more about the Crosswick books. I need to read the last one, too, hopefully this summer.

Lesley Austin said...

Precious peace, for the both of you. How good that you were together.

You and your family will continue in my thoughts and prayers.

The BUTT'RY and BOOK'RY said...

Oh my DEAR FRIEND!
My heart is swelled and full for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sending you warmest hugs and love, Linnie

Karen Andreola said...

Peace is such a wonderful answer to prayers made for someone we love so dear.
My sympathy.
Karen A.

Hill upon Hill said...

Oh my. My sympathy stretches to you and yours across the ocean.

Oh to be the full support that you were to her.

Your recounts of the days that follow this day were very moving.

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