Wednesday, September 1, 2010

just the pledge of my life, my love

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song of the day: 'for you' by john denver (one of my parents' favorite songs)
i got to spend the day with my mom in the hospital yesterday. by monday afternoon, it was clear she'd had a fairly significant stroke. she couldn't use her left side at all, slurred her words, and couldn't even swallow water. monday night was really really hard. my stomach was uneasy and i would just spontaneously start crying. but the minute i walked into her room on tuesday morning and saw her face, this incredible peace washed over me. she was greatly changed, but the reality of the situation was so much easier to bear than the nightmare i had formed in my mind. there are the sweetest glimpses of my mother as she was before in her speech. she'll make jokes and even when you don't think she's listening, she'll just start in on the conversation. there's a lot that she'll have to overcome in the next months. but the doctors are hopeful that she'll make great progress with therapy and time.
but i think the most wonderful thing i've seen so far in all this, is the love my parents have for each other. to witness the tenderness in the way my dad will hold mom's hand and kiss her cheek. the selfless way he'll comb her hair and get another blanket and prop up her head. i mean, they've loved each other for almost 50 years, since they were both 14! but it is just as sweet, and truly even more so, than it was in the beginning. they are living their wedding vows right now: in sickness and in health. what an incredible legacy to leave with your children.
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again, thanks so much for your encouragement and support. i am truly blessed :)
details:
jacket-vintage
dress-one of those discount retail stores but i don't remember which one
shoes-target
bag-vintage

10 comments:

Lucy, Dear Fish said...

I am so glad to hear that your mom is doing better. It is so wonderful that she has the support system of your loving family, especially your dad. I have been thinking of you and praying for your strength, and of course your mom's. I hope she continues to improve!

The Semi Sweet said...

I teared up the way you talked about your parent's love for each other. I'm sorry your mom is going through such a tough period, but with the support you and your family give her, she'll get better. I hope you're doing well.

Ana said...

I'm so glad that things are looking up for you and your family. I'm also glad you're sharing stories of your parents' love with us, it is absolutely touching.

merl said...

Now I know where you get your strength and gumption! Your mom sounds like a trooper and I can't wait to hear about how good she's doing in therapy. You're a strong woman to be there for her, and I'm glad you have such a loving and close family. Love ya darling!

Anonymous said...

So glad that your mom is getting stronger and she is surrounded by such a wonderful husband and family. The love your parents have is something not all of us experience and is truly inspiring. Thinking of you and hope you are doing okay!!

Ashley Dy said...

Congratulations for being a style icon! You are truly blessed!

Rach is Ordinarily Urbane said...

That is so touching, such a wonderful reminder of why we get married in the first place.

I'll keep your family in my thoughts, best wishes for a swift recovery for your Mom. Sounds like you both are very strong women and that love and support will carry you through anything!

And geez you still look adorable :)

xo

KristiMcMurry said...

I'm glad things are looking up. I hope your mom recovers quickly!

Stories like this, about your parents, really restore my faith in marriage. You see so much separation and hatred, but there is still love out there that lasts! I hope that will be me someday...still just as in love 50 years later.

Victoria / Justice Pirate said...

wow since they were 14, that is amazing!! i've been with my husband since I was 16, but to hear that people have held relationships together since even younger years is incredible!!!!!!

I pray that your mother will be completely healed from the effects of her stroke, and that the Lord will touch her life through this situation. My oldest brother had a stroke almost two years ago so I understand the aftercare and such that can go on through that situation. It is not fun.

+Victoria+
http://tiedemanntribe.blogspot.com

Kimberellie said...

I think it is so sweet your parents have loved each other since they were 14. Makes me tear up.

heart: me