I now know my Krytonite.
Two weeks.
Almost two weeks ago I left home to be with my sick father.
The longest amount of time I’ve been away from my bed since — heck — I can’t even remember. Summer camp?
These two weeks camped out in Central Florida I learned many important things.
— I found a preferred Target in the greater Orlando area. These last few days I’ve actually Target-hopped. Truly embarrassing.
— My mother and I share an inability to resist sesame sticks. (The big fat, flat kind.) They are our Kryptonite.
— The University of Florida can play as horrid a game as they did against South Carolina in The Swamp November 2010. At least this time I didn’t waste money on tickets.
— You can exist in a warm climate with only flip flops and cowboy boots for shoes. But I will never, ever go anywhere overnight without a pair of athletic shoes ever again. I don’t know what was worse, the 5 miles I ran in flip flops or the three in harness Fryes?
— The sound of an owl hoo-hoo-hooing at night is not soothing. It’s really, really creepy. They look so cute. Deceiving boogers.
— Looks like it will be gray and rainy day in the Sunshine State for my father’s funeral. Seems it is always gray and rainy at funerals of those I love.
Yes, I’ve learned so much these last few weeks — almost Freudian really — but I’m ready to head home.
Think I’ll stop by my preferred Publix for a stash of sesame sticks as I head out of town.
Oh, Jamie… I’m so sorry about your father. Sending love to you and your family, and sending “find sesame sticks” vibes your way!
Two weeks can be forever. Home will feel so good. Will be thinking of you tomorrow – yes have had a few of those gray rainy funerals in our family too. I know you know you aren’t saying goodbye – just ” see you soon, Dad”. Be safe on your trip home – take your time – there is healing in that journey. Much love, R
Thank you Jana. He had a long, wonderful life. But it is a deep sadness for me.
Thanks Ruth. You have crossed my mind many times during this time. Losing a parent — a wonderful parent — is an intensely personal sad journey.
Missing you here in Madtown! I will be thinking of you tomorrow. Yes, it may be a funeral to us, but a homecoming for him. As your blog suggests…We all long to be at home and your sweet daddy is there! So thankful for that blessed assurance.
Love you James!!
It is a very personal journey, Jamie, and no one can really walk it with you- although many will be there for you and they will be of great comfort. just one day at a time – no “right way” to grieve or timeframe or rules. Just lean on God and those who love you when you are ready. Hugs for tomorrow, and the next day….
That’s a beautiful thought, Jules. I admit to googling “near death experiences” on my phone at night at 3 a.m. From what I read, it sounds pretty awesome.
What Ruth said. We all experience loss on our own, in our own ways, but we know how good a hug (physical or virtual) from someone who cares feels at times like these. {{hug}}
I can’t tell you the hurt goes away, but time does take the edge off it. Treasure your time.
Thanks so much for that lovely thought Michelle. A hug to you.
Have thought of you many times this week…
Thank you Lisa. Hope to join you all at Stone Mountain in 2013
I’m so sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry about your father Jamie, but I am so happy you were able to be with him in the end. That is such a gift. So glad you are getting to head home, home is the best!
xoxo tiffani
Thanks Tiffani. Lots to catch up on here. I think it will be a while before this all sinks in.