My mother died in 2004 but in reality she left us several years before that. We watched as she slid into the state of dementia where the mind slips away. So, it was a time of rejoicing when she went to face her Jesus.
One of my favorite Christmas memories features mom. Every year I would ask her what she would like Santa to bring. And every year, for as long as my adult mind can remember, her answer was "Nothing. I don't want anything."
So, one year, perhaps the last when her mind was still there, I decided she would get her wish.
I beautifully wrapped several boxes--each nested into the preceding one. There was much colorful tissue paper and many beautiful bows. And then, finally, when she reached the last box which would hold the treasure I had found that year, under layered red and green tissue was a lovely printed note that said: Dear Mom, this year I have for you that which you have always wanted.....Nothing. I love you.
Unfortunately, I did not have the fun of watching the opening ceremony as Mom was with my brother and his family in Northern California. Fortunately, I had alerted my sister-in-law that everyone should watch as the beautiful package bloomed. The report back was that the room posed transfixed while the boxes appeared from within each other and, then, Mom burst into uncontrolled laughter, followed by everyone else as it was passed around.
The Opening
I treasure the gift of laughter I was able to give Mom and the memory now treasured by everyone who became part of it.
Mom at 90
My brother, mom and me
Her 90th Birthday Celebration
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
5 comments:
This is such a lovely lovely memory. Thank you for sharing Jane. Your mother looks so cute in these photos. The holidays do bring on the nostalgia of so many Christmas's in the past, and of loved ones now gone. What memories do pull at our heartstrings. This was such a thoughtful and beautifully written post.
What a beautiful and FUN story. Thank you for sharing... I will have to try this with my mom who always gives me that same answer - Nothing.
I know I typed up a comment when I first saw this post, but now I don't see it.
Your little Mom is adorable! And what a great story.
My Mom died in 2005, and I really miss her at this time of year because she loved the holidays. She was almost 90 when she died and her mind was still very sharp. We were lucky to have had her for all those years.
Yes Nancy, it is nice to have them for so long. And..I hope it means I will go on for a long time to come. Mom was 96 when she died.
Hi Jane, this is such a beautiful post and a wonderful, fun and loving memory. Thank you so much for sharing this very special Christmas memory and family photos with us.
Wishing you and your family all the best in the coming new year.
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