It has been great to a have Han here. He’s been a big help in every way. And its been hard. I’m beginning to un-numb and I’m having to face the reality of what it means to miss Mom in this new way. It’s like a part of me could believe she was away on a trip, like many times before—and I’m ready for her to come back now. As a loved one said, who has been through it before me, “your mind understands but your heart is screaming”. Exactly.
But, as we do: I’m putting one foot in front of the other….
To that end, a few days ago, I had my three month health check up with the oncologist. He had good news: all my bloodwork numbers look good. This felt huge since I have no back up plan for any other news!
And then this morning, we got news we’ve been waiting for, for the last six months: my Dutch residency has been approved! It wasn’t a sure thing, even though we are married, so this is really something to celebrate!
Two huge hurdles, cleared. To say it is a relief, is a giant understatement. By the end of the summer, after being married for nine months, I will officially be moving to Holland to join my husband. Wow….it’s hard to believe.
In preparation, and to honor Mom’s wishes, we are getting her house ready to sell. This is a big undertaking and much more emotional than I’d even anticipated. We moved into this house when I was 11. 43 years ago. So many memories woven in. Most of them involving Mom. Although this last year has been unbelievably tough, I'm so grateful for the time spent here, enjoying it together.
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Mom gave each of us and her grandchildren one of these little paintings, knowing in advance that this would be hard on us all. |
