my mother

my mother

September 6, 1939 - July 3, 2012

Last Wednesday my mother died in my father's arm, surrounded by her son and daughter-in-law. Although I was 800 miles away, she was never far from my thoughts. I called every day up to her death to tell her that I loved her and missed her.  As I sit here typing this my heart hurts from missing her.

When I am asked how I got started in thrifting, I always begin with mentioning my mom. She would take me in her arms as a baby into the only thrift store in our small town. Let's just say I never remember not thrifting, especially with her. She taught me how to thrift, how to seek a lower price and how to be frugal. So much of who I am today, is because of my mother. ATG wouldn't exist without my mom.

This is a poem that a friend of mine read at a potluck a few weeks ago. It seemed so fitting and I wanted to include it in this post dedicated to my mother.

My mother taught me how to be considerate, she showed me how to be planted firmly in my body.

Mom taught me to do something right the first time, she showed me how to focus myself into that task completely.

Mom taught me to always do the right thing, she showed me that doing the right thing isn't always easy.

Mom taught me that women must be treated with a certain respect, she showed me how I would comply

My mother told me that life is difficult and that I would make mistakes, she showed me how not to be ashamed of my mistakes

My mother told me to persevere, she showed me how to stand in strength.

Mom told me that tomorrow would be a better day, she showed me each day was what you made it.

Each day is a blessing waiting to unfold.

Each hello is a new chance to reconnect.

Each goodbye carries a moment of sweet sorrow.

And that each person we meet provides and opportunity for compassion.

My mother told me that she loved me. My mother showed her that she loved me.

-Dustin Deason

 mom, I love you and miss you. xoxo Selena

Comments

[sraikh]

I am sorry for your loss Selena.

Big hugs

[laura]

I am so sorry Selena. I know that it is never easy to lose a mom.

[Anne]

I'm sorry for you loss, Selena. I'm happy that you had such a great mom and such a good relationship with her. Thanks for sharing.
XO,
Anne

[angelika]

what a lovely tribute to your mom. It sounds like her passing from this life to the next was gentle and meaningful - both for her and for you and your family. that is a gift in itself. will continue to keep you and your family in my prayers as you continue on this new leg of the journey, learning what it means to walk it without her. she has obviously given you a good road map and good shoes for that journey. peace to you, selena.

[Cassandra]

So sorry for your loss. July 3 is the anniversary of my dads passing, 33 years now, I wasn't even two yet when he passed. It's a date I always remember, even though I have no memories of him, as his guitar sits next to my bed.

You know she'll be with you always, and it will be apparent when you go out thrifting.

My thoughts and well wishes go out to you and your family.

[summer]

My thoughts are with you.

[Lori]

My condolences...my heart hurts for you...

[DeeDee]

My heartfelt condolences to your entire family. Your words about your mother were very touching. I am so glad she was such a great influence on you, it shows in your writing. What a lovely legacy.

[Amy Stark]

My condolences are with you and your family. You have joined a sorority we don't want to join, women who have lost amazing moms. We have been blessed by all they taught us, all they shared, and all the memories we can carry in our hearts. Take care of yourself during these early days of this new journey.

[Lora]

Condolences to you and yours. Thank you for such a lovely tribute to your mother.

[Paulette Sanderson]

My sympathy goes out to your family.

[Jackie K]

So sorry for your loss...

[A La Modern]

My condolences to you and your family for your loss - hope you may find comfort in all the wonderful memories of your mother throughout the years.

[Beth Young]

I'm so so sorry, Selena. My prayers and heart go out to you and your family. Beth

[Barbara]

Your mother must have felt very proud and blessed to have you for a daughter.
I am sorry for your loss.
With deepest sympathy...

[Karin]

I weep for you and your lovely mom. What a lovely eulogy. You were blessed.
Peace, Karin in Maine

[Beth Young]

Btw, beautiful picture of your Mom. You look just like her. Just gorgeous. And I love that you put her next to a Bitossi Owl, I think? Gorgeous. You always have the best taste.

[Shabby Vintage Junk]

My thoughts for strength & courage are with you at this time Selena....My thoughts also go out to your Father who is no doubt feeling this great loss very keenly....Although you were unable to be there at that last moment, I'm so very glad he was there to see her through....

I agree with Beth....That is a LOVELY picture of your Mum & a WONDERFUL way to be able to remember here....!!!!!

Warmest hugs from Australia,
Tamarah xx

[Robin :-)]

My heart felt sympathy to you and your family in loss of your mom. Your words are beautiful and I hope you find comfort in knowing that she will live on through you. Hugs to you, Selena.

[Judy D.]

So, so sorry for your loss. It is very difficult to be far away from an elderly parent. I'm sure your daily phone calls were treasured by your mom. You're in my thoughts.

[Toni]

I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences. I, too, recently lost a parent who was also born in 1939. I definitely can empathize with what you might be going through. Though, no one can truly know exactly what you must be feeling. She seemed a very lovely lady and I have enjoyed reading about the fine young woman she raised you to be. If you ever need anything, please know that I, online stranger that I am, am here for you! My thoughts are with you and your family. Big hugs!!

[Mystica]

My condolences. So difficult for you not being there.

[Thrift Bee]

I too am sorry for your loss Selena. x

[Vicki K]

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, Selena. I am sorry for the loss of your mother. You have honored her with your words in this blog many times and honor her with using the skills she taught you.

[SixBalloons]

Selena, I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing with us how lovely your mom was.