Brookfield Wannabe

Although the calendar year resets every January, I have always tended to think of the beginning of September as the start of a new year. It’s a time for looking forward. Children start school again. People’s thoughts turn toward the holidays. The air cools. Even the character of the sunlight changes. It seems somehow fitting that my mom’s life would draw to a close at this time, just as the summer ends. My mother passed away on August 26.

I want to thank the readers who sent me emails regarding my first “Teddy Bears” blog. I was touched by the expressions of concern and comfort and was moved by the stories that some of you shared about your own experiences. I also want to thank those of you who were able to express your thoughts about my blog personally to either myself or members of my family. Your emails and thoughts only served to validate my belief that there is something valuable to be gained by telling your story and listening to others tell theirs.

So, as summer ends and fall draws near, my family and I take little steps forward -- aware that life will not be the same but aware that life must go on. And so must this blog. I hope you will continue to stay tuned in.

I leave this chapter in my life and this series of blogs with one last line dedicated to the memory of my mother.

“i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart)”

-- from the poem “i carry your heart” by ee cummings