Memories

 Recently, I've been sorting out the thousands of photos and videos I have stored on Google. I pay for the cheapest storage, but I worry about using up too much space.

While I was doing that the other day, I came across some videos of the cats from a few years ago. I actually don't remember taking these videos; maybe Hannah took them.

These were all happy, funny memories.

As I scrolled down, I noticed that the photos went back to 2002, when Hannah was born!

I then came across photos from the last time we went to England before Mom died.

These were hard photos to look at!

Mom with Hannah

Watching the boys play

With me, Hannah and Mikey

Mom was 63, the same age as I am now!

It's hard to believe that a year after these photos were taken, she had lost her battle with cancer.

I often wonder did she feel old. I don't, I know I'm 63, my body feels older sometimes, but in my mind, in my feelings, I feel like I'm in my 30s.

Mom is giving Hannah her bottle.

With Mom's friend

Looks like they are having a good talk

Mom really loved babies and children. I always felt sorry that she didn't get that much time with my kids. One thing that has always hurt me was the fact that my mother-in-law could see my kids as much as she wanted to, but she was never interested in them, until they were old enough to help her with her field work. My Mom would have just dotted on them!

The view from Sedgley Beacon

Sedgley Beacon

One day during our trip, we had a walk over the beacon. It used to be a lovely area to walk, just to ramble around. I remember spending summer holidays here, just walking and talking with friends. I was surprised to find that part of it was closed off. 

I always loved that view. I used to imagine having one of the "posh houses" near my parents' house. I guess life had other ideas!

 I'm glad that we made the effort to go. I still remember saying goodbye. That was so hard. I knew it was the last time to see Mom. I tried not to cry in front of her; it was hard for her as well. But once I got in the taxi, I just bawled. I cried all the way to the airport, 3 hours on the coach! 

These photos are happy/sad photos. I'm happy that Mom got the chance to meet her grandkids, especially Hannah. But sad that this was the only time. I think Mom would be very proud of how my kids have turned out!