This guest blog is written by David, Michael's son. He wanted me to share it with you so you can see Michael's strengths, but also as a reminder to show the love you have. Do not assume you will always get tomorrow. Assumption by David Hunter As humans, when we go to bed, most of … Continue reading Guest Blog- Assumption
loss
Guest Blog- Wild Horses
When we were gathered around Michael’s bed to before the chaplain prayed, Liane, Michael’s oldest daughter, played Wild Horses by the Rolling Stones for him. The atmosphere changed and it felt as if he was “hearing it” with us. It was powerful. Here Liane has written a guest blog about why she chose that specific … Continue reading Guest Blog- Wild Horses
Hard Things
We received a call from a hospital in Jacksonville that our brother was in neuro intensive care after a fall. He was living on Amelia Island and Jacksonville was the closest hospital for this type of injury. We all got there as fast as possible. Melinda and Kara flew in first and met David who … Continue reading Hard Things
Culture Shock
I cannot find words easily these days. Grief of losing both my parents is certainly a contributing factor, but it’s more than that. The world seems to have gone mad. Mean even. Ugliness is everywhere. I don’t do well with intentional spitefulness. My heart shrinks back. I was taught if you don’t have something nice … Continue reading Culture Shock
A Great Love (Part 2)
In 2020, when we moved Mom to memory care I wrote this blog entitled A Great Love. It was a tribute to the love I witnessed between my parents and how their devotion to each other impacted everyone around them. Now they celebrate their Great Love every day. I can’t imagine. What is it like … Continue reading A Great Love (Part 2)
Sweet Dreams
I have two memories which float through my brain when I wake in the night. They circle in my head, like planes in a holding pattern waiting on the right conditions to land. It seems they never quite touch the ground, but just keep the loop going enough to prevent my mind from resting fully. … Continue reading Sweet Dreams
Dear Grief,
Pardon the wee hour. It seems to me this is your most active time, when I am sleeping, or attempting to. Grief, I am more than familiar with your sneaky-behind-the-scenes ways. Frustration bubbles over at a family member or a co-worker. Sadness pops up at a television commercial and tears roll. Confusion over which cereal … Continue reading Dear Grief,
Death Watch
One year ago, we were holding vigil at Mom’s bedside. A death watch…a time of waiting for death to arrive. Hospice sounded the alarm that her time had come. We didn’t leave her side. Her body was weakening. Her breathing was a rattle. Then a gurgle. We took turns beside the bed. Reading her favorite … Continue reading Death Watch
Hi Dad,
I’m porch sitting this morning. The cozy chair from your back porch has made the transition to mine. When I sit here, I find comfort that you sat here before me. Silly, but sitting in this chair helps me to feel closer to you. And I am listening to the birds, trying to identify them … Continue reading Hi Dad,
Memorial Day
I am struggling. There I said it. Seeing it on the page in black and white helps me define my last few weeks. It’s been almost 6 months since Dad passed, but for some reason I have had a wave of emotion that feels fresh and new. Painful again. I am aware that grief doesn’t … Continue reading Memorial Day