Grief

Have you ever noticed how grief has a tendency to just sucker-punch you? Raynell has been gone almost 9 months now, and I am blown away by how often something in my daily life reminds me of her. At those times, the grief is just as strong and raw as when it was brand new.

Scott grumbled, "We have too many books!" and I shot back, "We don't have ENOUGH books!" Raynell would have laughed and applauded.

The other day I was debating with myself whether or not we have the time for William to begin Cub Scouts. I know that when and if he does, I will think of Raynell.

I stamped these cards this week, and I am just so, so pleased with them. (The sentiment on the solid cardstock doesn't show up at all in this scan. It says "Thanks so much.")
One day just before Christmas, I wondered randomly whether Jean & Raynell were stamping Christmas cards up in Heaven. I thought for a second that I was going to laugh out loud at the delightfulness of that possibility. I burst into tears instead.

Maybe nine months isn't all that long.