After four weeks away, I've arrived back to Mom's. It was a very unique trip this time: taking in all the beauty (and new life!) of Spring in Holland and at the same time, trying to wrap my mind around our new reality. I'm still having a hard time articulating the complex array of emotions bubbling up during this unprecedented time. Words just aren't enough sometimes, are they?
So, for now, here are some photos.
The Mill standing in "grief".
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| Tulips in bloom- about a mile from the Mill. |
And hyacinths, too.
We visited the Zaan Schans a couple times (about 25 minutes from Han's) to pick up some paint at this mill that grinds its own paint pigment! This can be really crowded with tourists normally so it was a treat to go with things so quiet.
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| Babies everywhere |
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| Even from the livingroom window! |
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I was glad to be there to celebrate Han on his 55th Birthday!🎈 |
On my last day, we started "Mom's Garden"...with plants gifted from Han's parents and a special cherry tree from his sister and family. I know Mom would love this. Also, Mom would enjoy the chickens being there and so interested. She raised this same friendly breed for many years.
What a coincidence!
Now you dwell inside the rhythm of breath,
As close to us as we are to ourselves.
~
Let us not look for you only in memory,
Where we would grow lonely without you.
You would want us to find you in presence,
Beside us when beauty brightens,
When kindness glows
And music echoes eternal tones.
~John O'Donohue
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| Mom wearing a favorite t-shirt (1975) |
Another flashback: Mom & Isabel and her happy chickens! (2010)
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Thankful for the gift of this time.
Now, Eric and I will tend to the practical, the best we can.
Han will be joining me here at the end of the month which will be a comfort (and big help!).
That's about as far as we can see, right now.
Thanks so much for the cards and messages of caring support.
It truly means so much to us all.
