I don't usually get too sentimental or melancholy about the end of the year and I didn't expect this turn in to the new year to be any different. But it was. And I wasn't prepared for it.
As I sat thinking about closing the chapter of 2012 I couldn't help but think about my dad. A lot of things happened in the year 2012, but losing my father will of course be the one that sticks out the most.
The end of the year brought back the pain of losing him. It felt in some way like I was saying goodby to him again. In turning the page and closing the chapter of 2012 it was like forever leaving my dad in 2012 ... because he isn't, and will never be, here to see another new year. He will always be linked, and staying in 2012.
Moving in to 2013 is creating that much more separation and distance from him. It is moving on, even though I've been doing that every day since July 12, 2012. Moving on to another year seems somehow more significant. It's moving on to the new year without him. I didn't think that would hit me as hard as it did.
Next weekend we are going to FL to cheer Joe on in the Disney marathon. The date of the half marathon (the full marathon was full by the time Joe registered) is exactly 6 months since my dad passed away. We will find some time during that short weekend to go to Cocoa and visit my dad's grave site...which will be the first time going back since his funeral. This means I will also be seeing his headstone for the first time.
I'm trying to prepare myself for that. But much like seeing his obit in the paper for the first time I don't think there is really any way to prepare for seeing my dad's name on a marker signifying his burial spot.
6 comments:
Thinking about you in 2013. Sorry about loss.
I'm so sorry for your loss Michelle. I will pray that your trip to FL gives you some peace. My grandfather passed away a year ago on Christmas Eve and I was surprised when some pretty strong emotions hit me out of nowhere the day before. I'm washing dishes one minute and bam, water works.
I hope that 2013 will be a joyful year for your family!
My heart, tears and thoughts will be with you when your journey brings you back to the cemetry where your dad is buried. this piece that you expressed your thoughts about the closing of one year and a new year very emotional for me to read. Love Mom
I'm so glad I will be around to offer a hug!
My dad is still with me, but he is so old now! he loves my daughter Matilda (my 9 yo with DS) and she adores him, he is just great with her, so I try to get her to see him as often as possible, it's not easy as he lives a 7 hr drive away. So while I still have my dad around I appreciate your loss, it's not easy this life thing is it.
I'm so sorry - I was behind in my reading & didn't realize what Saturday meant for you. I feel like a dolt but I'm glad I got to have an ice cream with you & your gorgeous family!
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