Award-winning Publishers Weekly Best-selling Author

Bittersweet

by | Feb 14, 2011 | , | Mama's Patchwork | 4 comments

“Where are we going?” I said as I sat in the front seat of the car.

Jeff leaned over and kissed me on the cheek. “It’s a secret.”

“Secrets? I love secrets.” I giggled as Jeff pulled the car out of the driveway.

It was Valentine’s Day and it had been perfect so far. We had gone to a wedding earlier and were now heading to a secret location to have our special dinner. My knee began to bounce as I couldn’t contain the excitement welling up inside me. Would he propose tonight?

Yes, he did. That special Valentine’s Day was 14 years ago.

This week is always a fun one for us. We celebrate our love for each other, plus Jeff’s birthday (Feb. 16th). A double whammy of joy.

However, four years ago on Feb. 16, 2007, Mom went to be with her Saviour. Sadness filled my being as I saw my precious mother slip away at the young age of 69.

My hands shook as I went to call Jeff and tell him the news. A thought went through my mind. How can I celebrate my husband’s birthday when my mom died on the same day?

Jeff’s reaction surprised me. He said it was an honour for her to have passed away on his birthday. Wow. He knew her tumour was gone and she was whole again in the presence of Jesus. She was singing with the saints along with Dad!

This week we will celebrate Valentine’s Day, Jeff’s birthday and four years of Mama being “whole” with her Saviour.

It’s bittersweet.

She looked up from her quilting and stared at the roses sitting on the table next to her. Her love always bought her favourite….yellow. She thought of their meaning. This color symbolizes friendship and joy. Perfect. Her husband was her best friend and he brought unspeakable joy to her world. Then she thought of her Saviour and imagined Heaven full of yellow roses. What joy there will be with her eternal best friend!

Jeremiah 31:3(NCV)

“And from far away the Lord appeared to his people and said, “I love you people with a love that will last forever. That is why I have continued showing you kindness.”

Jeff, will you be my Valentine?

Happy Birthday my love.

Mom, I will miss you forever.

4 Comments

  1. Stephanie

    There are tears in my eyes after reading this, Dar. Love & prayers, my dear friend.

    Reply
  2. Julie Richmond

    Oh wow Aunt Darlene, those last 3 lines brought me to tears. Happy Valentine’s Day Aunt Darlene, Uncle Jeff (Happy birthday in 2 days!) and Grammie (miss you). xoxo

    Reply
  3. Heather

    You are blessed here and above. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story.

    Reply
  4. susan steeves

    I miss her too!!! Love ya sis

    Reply

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