Celebrating Nana’s birthday without
her is tough every year since she’s been gone. I usually post a Nana memory on
Facebook. But this year I decided NOT to
do a post. I felt I didn't want to share my feelings ‘outside’. I went into my
saved Zoom videos and watched the one I recorded on her last birthday. It
was her 97th birthday, September 15th, 2020 and during Covid shutdown. I had sent cupcakes for her and the nursing home
staff, a big bunch of balloons and a gift. The staff there helped with the Zoom
and also sent me pictures. Plus, Lori and Nate and the boys were on the Zoom
too. Nana was in bed during the video but enjoyed seeing us and talking to us,
even remotely. Although watching the video made me cry, it made me smile too.
Nana with her 97th Birthday Cupcakes & Balloons
 |
| Birthday Zoom with Nana and Diane & Jan and Lori & Nate & Ollie & Sid |
On Nana’s birthday this year, I also
received a beautiful text from my long-time friend Karen. Here is what she said
that touched my heart:
“Hello and Happy heavenly birthday to your beautiful Mom. Every time I think of her, I am inspired to pull up my big girl panties, put a smile on my face, and get back to work. I’m glad I met her and I’m so glad she gave me such a wonderful friend in you.”
Her words were a tribute to Nana’s strength. Nana survived so much in her life and she certainly was strong. She was also funny and stubborn and kinda bossy. I loved all those things about her. I remember our daily phone calls, especially when I couldn't visit. She used to tell me, "Diane, you're a good girl." That always made my day.
Celebrating Nana’s Heavenly Birthday
privately with close friends and family felt right this year. Not only on her birthday,
but every day, I'm grateful for all the years we had her in our lives. She’s in my thoughts daily and my deep love for her remains.
