4000 words

I can't really produce words that could do justice to the pain I feel inside sitting next to my mom as she lay dying. I can't begin to express how proud I am of her strength and courage she's displayed throughout her journey with cancer. These pictures speak volumes to her condition as she winds down her time in the physical world. Jenny and Mike were both there by her side (and mine) today as we spent the afternoon with her. I can't say how much their presence aids me in my own personal battle with witnessing mom disappear from my immediate life. My cousin Tommy (seen in the last picture above) showed up to spend some time with his aunt. He is more like a brother than a cousin and having him there today was a blessing.

Just like the past week, today mom teetered between this world and another one. At any given moment she is completely lucid and cracking a beautiful smile, other times she is completely out of it with eyes rolling around in her head talking almost gibberish (though I am sure it means something to her).

I have witnessed Maureen, her hospice nurse, comfort her and tell her that she is going to be safe in the arms of her Lord. I have had the pleasure of seeing mom smile as big as she ever has. We have exchanged many "I love yous" and shared many hugs and kisses. It has been the hardest week of my life - I can't imagine how it feels for mom. Time is very limited and Jenmy and I will be back there tomorrow, spending what little time is left with a woman we both love very much.

Pat