After a long day of travel yesterday, I’m back home and reflecting on an incredible journey home. First up, a visit to my mom, to read Birdie & Mipps to her. Since she’s battling dementia, I wasn’t sure how it would go and as I reflect, I deeply felt the depth and width of her words: I don’t know why but this is making me feel really sad.
I explained to her that it was really sad, that Mipps is her little boy, and that he’d died a few years ago, but that it was also happy because a part of his story is now in our book, and that’s when she said, “Well, I’d really like to have a book like this.” Sigh.
And in that moment, I realized how important it was to always carry an extra copy.
Next up, off to visit my Aunt Elaine, who just turned 91. Since our youngest son, Joshua, and his wife, Ariana, were with us, I asked them to read the book aloud in the roles of Birdie & Mipps.
Here’s a snippet of them reading one of my favorite pages. What’s your favorite page?
Then, my mom got to meet her great granddaughter, a precious moment indeed.
What joy fills my heart to be together in this four-generation picture.
And finally, the reason for our trek home: To gather for Tanner and Callie’s big day. So blessed to stand with Tanner’s other two Godmothers in this shot.
Mipps was represented at the memorial table; Tanner wrote such a beautiful tribute.
In our family picture, Jacob is wearing Mipps’ jacket and one of his ties; Joshua is sporting one of his ties as well. Our Dad made this beautiful cross centerpiece for the wedding ceremony.
Together truly is my favorite place to be.
Barbara Gruener 