Somehow, in my heart, I knew 79 would be mi Ama's last birthday. Still, I hoped that she would make it to see 80.
Today, would have been her 80th birthday. As I prayed the rosary this morning while I walked MJ in the cold, windy morning, I thought about how mi Ama would never have to feel the bitter cold again. How she didn't have to take all those pills, worry about bad news from doctors, worry about Filly and Richy, or feel all the aches and pains in her body. That gave me such solace.
I have cried some today because I miss her and all of her crazy antics, but I know she's still around. She's the butterfly that comes way too close to MJ. She plays with the candle on the altar that used to belong to her. It has good batteries, but it only lights up when I pray hard for my siblings' health or I have something heavy on my soul.
When I cry, I always tell her that I cry because I am so grateful to have had such a wonderful Mom. I will always miss her, but I will always be okay that she is finally at rest. And while she didn't make it past 79, January 22nd will always be a special day in my heart.
Feliz cumpleaños Ama! La quiero tanto, tanto, tanto.
Right: Mom celebrating her 79th after being in a the hospital for a week.
Left: My little altar with the candle Father Henry gave us after Mass today, a hot chai tea latte with almond milk just like she liked it, and an orchid because they were her favorite.
