So much has happened

My last blog was dated September 23, 2010. I posted to announce good news: Rx FOR TRUST won Best Contemporary Romance of the Year 2010 at Readers Favorite. I was smiling to my ears.

The day after I stopped smiling. My heart clutched by anxiety. My Mom started coughing. The doctor ordered her to bedrest. She never came out of that bed alive. My sister, my aunt and I stayed with her day and night. Five days later, on September 28, Mom died surrounded by her loved ones.

Family and friends gathered around us and offered support and prayers.

My mother is remembered for her lovely smile, her positive attitude, her incredible endurance.

A month had passed but I still can't look at her pictures without crying, although I am sure she is in a better place and praying for us.

I received a very nice poem from my friend, Mimi. It applies so well to my Mom.

Fill not your hearts with pain and sorrow,

But remember me in every tomorrow.
Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles,

I've only gone to rest a little while.
Although my leaving causes pain and grief,

My going has eased my hurt and given me relief.

So dry your eyes and remember me,

Not as I am now, but as I used to be.

Because, I will remember you all and look on with a smile.
Understand, in your hearts, I've only gone to rest a little while.

As long as I have the love of each of you,

I can live my life in the hearts of all of you.