Louise never married so she was always generous with my children, enjoyed them immensely, encouraged them, and considered them family. She had the loudest laugh of anyone I ever knew, and she used it often. She also had exuberance and appreciation that knew no bounds. We loved it when Louise came to stay, but, when Louise left, we needed a rest from her energy, volume, and enthusiasm.
Louise retired from a lifetime of teaching just a few months ago. She wasn't nearly done living. She had plans, oh, my she had plans, and was just waiting for spring weather to get them underway.
I can't believe she is gone. It's a cliche, but it is also true as can be. I can't find the place to settle that thought in my mind. How can someone with such a huge energy field just not be there anymore?
Life is drawn up short for some time, and then it goes on. My reaction, and my tribute, is to renew my intent to fill every moment of my own life and savor every experience.
So I booked my flights for September. I began making plans and room reservations. And I ordered something I have wanted for years:
A bike that folds up and fits in my car. Now all I need is a bell, a wicker basket, and a straw hat with daisies on it!
That's a lovely tribute to your friend.
ReplyDeleteYou enjoy your bike.
Maybe the bike should be named Louise? with a loud bell?
ReplyDeleteYou made me laugh! Louise it is. Maybe I will find one of those little plastic license plates small children out on their tricycles!
DeleteSeize the day indeed and good for you for getting the fold up bike and booking your trip. Your friend would have approved by the sound of her.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear of your friend passing. You have written a lovely tribute to her. Good for you to take up her baton and go on a trip. Have fun. The bike is awesome .
ReplyDeleteYes you are right, we did the same after a family member died so young and still had so many plans to enjoy his retirement. We booked two holidays, you never know how long you can enjoy a healthy life.It is so sad to loose someone of your own age...
ReplyDeleteIt's a shame you have lost your best friend but life is sometimes very cruel. Carpe diem is a nice Latin proverb and it is true.
ReplyDeleteSo sad that you have lost such a great friend. You obviously enjoyed one another's company enormously over the years and now you have wonderful memories and inspiration for your bucket list. Best wishes with your planning for what sounds like a momentous upcoming trip!
ReplyDeleteDear Cynthia, this is a wonderfully touching and poignant posting--a tribute to the deep down joy that was, it seems, the essence of your friend. It is in death that I most believe in the HOly Oneness of All Creation. I cannot believe that such energy and life force could cease to be. It is even now surrounding you as you embrace the day and live the present. Peace.
ReplyDeleteThis is my fifth try at leaving a comment. What a beautiful tribute to your friend: your post and your resolve to sieize the day. I am glad to read about someone who may have had a laugh louder than mine. Thank you Louise! I like your bike, but if you're adding all the other stuff, don't forget a long enough pole with a little flag on top to allow drivers to see you behind vehicles that could block their site of you. I love that your bike folds, though!
ReplyDeleteThanks for persevering through five attempts!
DeleteAnd you are right, I probably should look into one of those orange flags so they can see me comin'!
Oh yes Paid In Chickens has a grand idea! My sympathy...we can never have too many friends...especially as we age. Seize the day for sure!! I am sure your friend would approve! :)
ReplyDeleteThat is such a sad news. Louise seemed to be a real great soul, a very loving person. You honor her memory well, with your words and your insights, especially on how you'll continue moving forward, cherishing every moment from this point with extra effort. Good for you for making those plans and doing them. I can just imagine the look of that cute bike! Stay healthy Cynthia! All the best!
ReplyDeleteTrudy Nearn @ Generations