6 Comments
User's avatar
John Luccioni's avatar

This is what all of us, your friends, are feeling right now in some way or other. It is such a weird time in our lives. So much to be thankful and look forward to, but also not ready to take the reigns to carry on the family tree.

Expand full comment
Cath Giesbrecht's avatar

I loved your description of grief and the things you need to do to cope. Grief takes what it takes. This first rush will subside a bit. And those memories that seem to be slipping away will come back as your emotions get calmer.

Kiddie Beach was at the north end of First Ave in the body of water that feeds into Stockton Lake (separates Squan from Sea Girt). We used to go there too - my Dad called it "The Creek." Loved it! Not sure if it's still there, though.

❤️❤️❤️

Expand full comment
Karen Sargent's avatar

I love that you remember that place! Thank you for giving it a name in my memories! As I recall, there was a small food truck there with sodas and ice cream too.

Expand full comment
Amanda B.'s avatar

What a thoughtful description of the grief that you feel. Thank you for sharing. The emptying theater analogy helped me better understand my own feelings.

"Memories are so fleeting. I wish I had been one of those lifelong journalers who wrote about the events of every day. I wouldn’t be grasping to put together my childhood now."

With Mom's passing, I collected a few favorite pictures of my childhood and put them on my desk, just past my laptop. They remind me that we are the next bridge between the past and the future, and to look ahead and build a strong bridge.

Keep writing!

Expand full comment
Wounded Sheep's avatar

(((((((Karen)))))))

Expand full comment
Myrtice D. pinelli's avatar

I, too, am so thankful for my heritage. I had good Christian parents and grandparents who knew what was important to impart to their children like hard work, Christian values, and love for our country among others. Yes, and now I must do the same for my children and grandchildren. Although it might not come to fruition while I am living, I truly pray that they will remember me for my love for God, family, and country!

Expand full comment