…and the most wonderful mother and friend.

November 1st was the date we selected for my mother’s gathering of remembrance, held in my hometown of Dover, Ohio. Family and dearest friends joined together to pay tribute to one of the finest and most amazing women we’ve had the privilege of knowing. It was a raw, gray day but we were kept warm by our memories of Henrietta as we gathered before the fireplace in the beautiful and comfortable atrium at the Geib Funeral Center. Anne Geib and her staff were warm and welcoming and took care of every detail to perfection.

It was a beautiful celebration of a most beautiful lady. And although I continue to miss her sweet essence, the gathering was an important part of the ongoing healing process.

I’ve included below two small excerpts from my personal tribute to Mom. The first passage is a poem by an unknown author that captures quite well how we feel about losing Henrietta, and the second is a list of the rules by which she lived her life.

 The tied recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand,

The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land.

The music stops, and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains…

For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains.

 

Henrietta’s Simple Rules for a Good and Happy Life

Be Generous

Be Grateful

Be Honest

Be a True Friend

Help Others

Don’t Judge

Forgive

Work Hard

Don’t Quit

Always Present Your Best Self

Laugh Joyfully

Love Deeply

And lastly…a girl can never have too many pairs of shoes.