Welcome to tales of my stitching life, home, family and friends.

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Keeping close to Home

 These last few weeks between Robin's passing and waiting for the date of his Memorial Service I have been keeping close to home - a bit like being in limbo.  Although I've had to make visits to the bank and the supermarket to keep things running, I decided not to take part in several Christmas break-ups.

I did make an exception with the Sew Wots Christmas lunch the other week.  Thought I would be able to cope with meeting up again with this small group of caring ladies.  The chosen cafe was The Emporium, luckily not too busy with lots of strangers, and we all took along a floral fat quarter to swap.   We could add another small item as well if we wanted, for an added surprise.  Former member Moira came along too, so it was nice to see her again. 


Lucky dip for Christmas


Christmas Tree in the cafe

What did we eat, I can't remember.  But I do remember looking longingly at Carol's lunch and wishing I had chosen that item instead of mine!  The owner kindly took a few photos for us.


The Sew Wot Ladies

The other exception I made was to join my friend Dot and a couple of other ladies for her birthday lunch.  That was very nice, and Dot wanted to go to a favourite cafe which had recently been sold, just to see what changes had been made.  We were pleased to note that the new owners had kept most of the existing menu, after all, people like what they like, don't they, and customers are often adverse to changes.  No photo this time.

I've had a couple of difficult days, feeling most upset, so decided to take myself off to the local cinema to see the film For King + Country: A Drummer Boy Christmas - Live.  The film features a live performance by the Christian pop duo Joel and Luke Smallbone, a couple of Aussies now living in the USA.  Filmed in a sold out arena in Houston, Texas, it was a wonderfully uplifting film. Christmas songs, some were new to me, but many old favourites too, including the Little Drummer Boy.  I could sit there tearfully in the dark, and nobody noticed.  

Wednesday will no doubt be a difficult day for me, when the Memorial Service will be taking place.



26 comments:

The Cozy Quilter said...

Christmas is such a difficult season when someone you love is not there. May God bless you as you remember and celebrate Robin’s life this week. Thinking of you and sending a hug. Gail

ButterZ said...

Will be thinking of you, especially on Wednesday

Carolyn said...

It’s good that you were able to get out for a little bit. I pray the memorial service will not be too difficult. Hugs and many prayers.

Julierose said...

I think of you a lot these days--loss, especially during Holiday Seasons, is so hard--it seems there is no way around it, you have to go through it...
I hope your days will bring you some calmness and after the Memorial Service some closure...Many warm hugs, Julierose

Kathy S. said...

Sending you hugs and you continue to grieve. Will be thinking of you all week--especially Wednesday.

Jikke13 said...

condolences and strength

Maggie said...

Dearest Jenny, Knowing how difficult it is at this time of year, May ou be wrapped in warmth, hugs and love from each and everyone who cares and love you. When we lose a loved one unexpectedly without a chance to say goodbye, it is very hard. Gemma and you are in our hearts and prayers. Hugs, Maggie

Deb A said...

I have been thinking of you and was so happy to see your post this morning. Big hugs to you and so happy you chose to go out with some friends this month.

Quilter Kathy said...

Sending you condolences and hugs as you navigate this terrible season of grief.

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

I think it is good to do the things you did the lunches and a movie - it will take a bit of time to adjust to a new life I'm sure. You have to keep reminding yourself that Robin would want you to keep doing these things - from all you have mentioned of him I think he would anyhow. Keep it up and as they say it gets easier as time goes by.

Berkshire Tatter said...

Keeping you in my prayers. Bless you this Christmas season and into 2025. Hugs for you and Gemma.
Marthanne

Sarah said...

Will be thinking of you Wednesday. Take care. X

LIttle Penguin Quilts said...

Thinking of you, Jenny. I'm glad you felt comfortable getting out with friends, and hope it helped. That sounds like a lovely show to go to - I have always loved their rendition of Little Drummer Boy.

loulee said...

(((Hugs))) We'll be thinking of you this week.

Anonymous said...

Sending HUGS!!!!!!!! and healing for your heart as you move forward!! Therese

Gretchen Weaver said...

Hugs from afar! I pray that you will remember many happy memories with Robin that you may have forgotten. Blessings!

Karrin Hurd said...

So sorry for the loss of your dear husband. I will be thinking about you and keeping you in my prayers. It has been 3-1/2 years for me, and November 16th would have been our 49th anniversary.

grammajudyb said...

I’m so sorry you are going through this. Nothing any of us can say will help but I’m wishing you everything you need to get through this today and every day.

Astrid said...

Dear Jenny, I'll be thinking about you, especially on Wednesday. Glad you got out of the house to meet the others ladies and to the cinema too. (((Hugs)))

Maria said...

It was good to read you were able to spend some time with dear friends and go to a movie.
Thinking of you especially on Wednesday. Hugs

Juliana said...

So many heartfelt wishes for you during this horrible beginning of your loss. It's good that you feel like doing a few things with special friends. Each step forward really is important for you as you try to figure out your life as it is now. Everyone who cars about you and about Robin will try to uplift your spirits on Wednesday. Try to have as many 'creature' comforts as you can--warmth, good food, enough rest, lots of Gemma cuddles.

cityquilter grace said...

so sorry for your loss...grief is an unwelcome journey...i've been coping but still crying episodes esp seeing her things on my tree etc...i joined griefshare and get an email every day with advice and comfort...but it's still a painful journey

Jackie said...

I am glad that you spent some time with close friends over this holiday season.
I continue to light a candle and pray for you and Robin. ((Hugs)).

God bless.

nestki said...

Congratulations on getting out a few times, being with friends and going somewhere in public on your own. That might help you get through the memorial service a little more easily. Wednesday will be a day of good memories for everyone. I will be thinking of you. I wish the best to you and Gemma.

Karen S said...

I think the way you feel is very understandable.
It is going to take a while to get used to all the changes, so a little step at a time is very wise.

Lianne makes stuff said...

Thinking of you.