I don't think I have fully processed it yet, it was only nine months after my dad went home. I was focused on the to do lists. I'm sure it will eventually catch up with me. That's the one thing I have learned, grief is a nasty, sneaky beast.
What I do know is I miss her and I still can not believe she is gone. Donna was a tiny person in stature but she had a BIG presence. Everyone who knew her loved her and she loved everyone that much more. That was who she was; a kind, giving soul.
Dear Donna,
I miss you. I miss your smile, your laugh, your big hugs, your love for Christopher and our boys. I miss your treats. You always had treats. You displayed Little Debbies in your kitchen and tucked them in your purse. Garret's favorite were the ginger bread men. Bryce and Drew loved the special Valentine's and Easter Dunkin Donuts you delivered each holiday.
I miss the thoughtful way you gave gifts, especially at Christmas. One of your greatest joys was gift giving and you always gave the most perfect gifts. I miss your dressing, it was the best and I can not duplicate it. I miss your chocolate pie and deviled eggs. I'm trying my best to perfect the chocolate pie, but it will never be as good as yours. Thank you for passing along the recipe, it's a treasure because we have it in your handwriting. I miss seeing you around all of the holidays in your holiday shirts and accessories.
While I miss all of these things I am also remembering. I remember how we were caught in a huge rainstorm in Orlando on our Disney trip and we laughed all the way running to the car. It's was the only time I ever saw your hair flat. I remember you on the big swing ride at the Delta Fair. You were laughing and dangling your feet as you and Garret flew through the air. I remember your red finger nails and toenails and your black Lexus, you loved that car and looked so cute driving it.
I remember the last things you said to the boys. You told Garret to do well in school and sports and do to it all for Jesus, you told Drew to focus on school and to not worry about the ladies, and you told Bryce to go to a good college and make his Mimi proud.
Most of all I want to thank you for the gift of you son, Christopher. He is truly our rock and the boys and I adore him. You raised him to be loyal, hard working and God fearing. He daily leads our family and we navigate life together as a team. I know how much you loved him. Please know we love him fiercely and he's doing well. He misses you but he knows where you are and he will see you again.
So for now, I picture you sitting on a big fluffy cloud, dangling feet with your red painted toenails, clapping your hands and smiling as you look down at us and see us moving forward one day at a time. We love you always.
Grace and Peace,
Misty
