Words cannot express my graditude for all the well wishes, hugs, prayers, etc. If it makes sense, I can feel the warmth from all of you through the screen. It's amazing the caring people that are on this site. I'm truly blessed to know each and every one of you.I'm having a very hard time with this, understandably so - I realize that - but I'm having to plan it all. I've been designated by my siblings (I'm the baby of 8). I've never had to do this before and never realized the planning involved. The wake won't be until Friday and funeral on Saturday, so not only do I have to get this all done - but I'm also having to work and be there for my kids too. I've barely slept....I'm lucky if i got 3 hours last night. I sat and stared at a blank piece of paper last night trying to write my mom's obituary -not an easy task. There were so many wonderful qualities about her and it was hard to figure out what to write and how to write it. I finally managed and emailed it to the funeral home about 3 this morning. I went to bed - exhausted - yet able to sleep. My mind was racing with so much to do and thinking about my mom and seeing her. She looked so peaceful. Still dealing with the funeral home, getting the buriel plots (my parents had nothing planned!) and tomorrow will be who's going in what limo, etc., and making sure the restaurant is squared away for after the funeral. Picking out menus, etc. It's like planning a wedding, but instead it's a funeral. Brought the dress that she's going to wear to the funeral home this morning and went over more details. Since i'm the designated person with the funeral home - I need to convey everything that's being requested by my siblings/grandchildren - and let me tell you - my phone has been nonestop. I'm so tired mentally and emotionally. Pretty much I'm living on caffeine and nicotine! I pray I can get to bed early tonight and actually fall asleep. I do have sleeping pills - but would rather not take them if I can help it.Mr. Mom has been so wonderful. Offered to watch/take the kids for me anytime and do anything he can for me. He's awesome....seriously....I mean we've been dating for just over a week and he's totally right there for me. Couldn't ask for a nicer guy. My ex is even being awesome - took the kids for me yesterday and stayed with them til I was able to get home. He's going to go with me to the wake about 15 minutes early with the kids so that we can take them there privately so they can pay their respects to their grammy. First funeral that they will be attending. I just wanted to do this privately so they could handle it better. Then my ex wil take them for me til Sunday. It's going to be a long week. It's hard not having closure andstill having to deal with life.Again, thanks for all of your love....I love you all xoxo
Replies
I\'ll be around...always around- when you need me.
Just know that we are all with you in spirit Our Friend. HUGE HUG, Tusti XX
Hi Lisa. I\'m very sorry this has happened. Just when you are starting to feel happier. Of course there is NO GOOD TIME for our moms to pass on. I wish I lived a little closer so I could be there for you every day until it\'s over. I know everything u r going through, and how difficult the planning is. I helped mom thin of everything for my sister. I was right there with her doing the Obituary, picking her outfit, her casket, the times of services, the cards, the plot, the songs at the church, and on and on. I wish your siblings didn\'t dump it all on you. It kind of makes grieving and reality pushed to the side for now. It\'s a good thing your ex is going early with you, and helping with the kids. We took my 3 boys in 1/2 hour b4 the service, so they could say goodbye to auntie. They were only 3, 4 and 5 then. It was hard. They were excited to see her there after hearing she died, but then I had to explain things again. The place she was at for the wake had 2 alcoholic owners, and my sisters makeup looked awful. I fixed it up for her, and mom brushed her hair better. Then 2 yrs later we went to my husbands moms wake and my 6 yr old son ran up to the casket and happily said \"AUNTIE\". It was so sad that that was his memory. My heart goes out to your kids, and of course to you. I hope you would seriously ask me if you needed me to do anything. Im only a drive away! I love you Lisa. I hope God helps you through this. You will remain in my prayers, where u have been since I met you! Nichole
I had to plan everything for my Father, too. Almost a blessing in disguise - to let my brain and my body absorb my pain at a slower pace. Your grief will come in waves. I am so glad that you have Mr. Mom supporting you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. xoxo
Hey Girl,
I feel so badly for your pain. It is great that you have support from your ex and new guy.
I know you will miss Mom a great deal. Our Mothers are so special and will always be with us
Take good care of you and try and get reat even if it means using your pills for now
God BLess you My Friend
You will be in my Prayers
love Jan
Wow, you are being so strong. One thing at a time and I\'m sure it will fall into place. The fact that you are the designated one shows how highly you are thought of by your family. Take care and my thoughts are with you, love - John
Lisa - You are in my thoughts and prayers during this time of sadness. Keep it simple. Rita
i lived thru the planning of several funerals the last 6 yrs...i roboted thru them. the strength comes..it just does. i love u very much CL...and so do many others. sadly, being a grown up..we have to face this. not easy...but the cycle of life. allow your grief to express itself in any way that gives u comfort..and then put the love in your heart for that person....where they remain...and make u stronger. xoxo Di
I was also in charge of all arrangements for my Mom when she passed. It was a tough time, but I went through the motions as best I could and held it together because I had to. Once all was said and done, I took the time to grieve, as you will too. Please know that I\'m here for you now and always. Sending you much love and strength today Lisa.
Jill
xoxoxo