Yesterday was the second year anniversary of Laura’s death — a poignant time to recollect. Like so many other milestones it seems like the time has gone by quickly and yet so much has happened, giving just the opposite sense.
The girls were excited by the date; Lily has it memorized. On other days, sadness crops up unexpectedly. (Lily was in tears the other day when we were watching a scene from “Ice Age 3” where a baby wooly mammoth was cuddled by its mother.) But yesterday for them was a fun time to memorialize by just doing something special.
The girls brought bouquets of zinnias, marigolds, and black-eyed susans picked from Naomi’s backyard flower garden and we spruced up the grave with new fall-blooming flowers and ornamental grasses. Naomi chose to wear her Day of the Dead t-shirt that she painted with Natalie. They struck a pose for the camera standing on the memorial bench and then went jumping and exploring around the rest of the cemetery as they often do.
I asked Naomi if she remembered the burial. She was just 3 1/2 years old. And indeed she did, recalling how she tossed flowers into the grave after the casket was lowered. A beautiful memory that I’m glad she still keeps.
Then we trucked down to the YMCA for gymnastics and swim lessons. And on it goes. Take care all. Thanks for your thoughts. I’m thinking of all you, friends and family, who are also remembering Laura at this time.
5 responses so far ↓
1 Elena // Oct 6, 2010 at 5:57 pm
I thought of you all day yesterday. I went to Mass and the Gospel reading was a story of sisters, Martha and Mary (lots of tears!). After school, we had a nice family gathering and meal at Mom and Daddy’s house; one of those rowdy affairs we Coleman’s love.
I was reminded of the Gospel reading from the morning and how Laura was so good at being Mary – eager to be involved in the party, listening to others with genuine interest and I am better at being Martha, busy cleaning and helping. I think I need to take Laura’s example, though, so that I am not missing out on so many other important things.
Miss you all so much! Love and hugs all around from me, please.
2 Donna Chastain // Oct 8, 2010 at 4:39 pm
Dear David, Lily and Naomi..I too thought of you on that memorable day .. I haven’t been in touch with you in a long time but believe it or not you cross my mind almost daily..I am glad the girls have memories of Laura since they were so young when she passed away..I know you will keep her forever in their hearts and minds..you are a good daddy David..your girls are lucky to have you!
sending hugs from Ragtown
love, Donna C.
3 Lisa Flores // Oct 11, 2010 at 11:56 pm
David, so glad to hear from you and see pictures of the girls – adorable as usual and getting so big. Can’t believe it has been 2 years already. Lots of kisses and hugs, Lisa
4 danielle // Oct 12, 2010 at 10:43 am
hi david,
thanks for updating us about your day. my girls and i spent some time with laura after being at the ashfield fall festival on sunday. it was very moving to be there, again, and explain it all to my girls, again…
thinking of you and the girls. and laura, of course.
xo
5 Janice Everett // Oct 26, 2010 at 12:46 pm
Wow! The girls are really growing!!! So good to see them and hear from you..Oct 5 is a sad day for most, but maybe we should do like Lily and Naomi, be excited and celebrate the day… remembering Laura’s unique gifts and wonderful life moments that she shared with all around her. Love and hugs to you all!!!