This past week has been one full of contrasts; of ups and downs, of highs and lows, of gains and losses.
It has given us both loss and love, grief and joy, sorrow and happiness; a death and a marriage.
After moving him into hospice this past Monday, my father-in-law, Charles Hollander passed away on Thursday June 5th, he was 81 years old. Although we were all well aware that this day was looming, expecting it and experiencing it are two different things.
Two days later, on Saturday June 7th, my stepson Steven and his lovely fiancée Eileen got married. It was a beautiful happy occasion.
Contrasts
Although I often hide it, I am an emotional person (disclosure) there were tears, some at the most inopportune time (thankful for an empty ladies room). You see, mourning a loss and celebrating a union put me in great conflict and their collision, it turns out, was harder to take than I anticipated it would be.
My father-in-law was a loving and creative man who passed on his curiosity and inventive nature to both of his sons. He didn’t slow down until his body said otherwise. I have fond memories of family gatherings and working craft shows in New Paltz, NY…and pointing out “trac-toors” (winks at mother-in-law and husband). He will remain in my heart, always.
Although this week began on a sad note and was punctuated with the loss of a life, it ended with the beauty of a new life for two, joined at the heart. And it is my heart that both aches for dad and swells with joy for Steven and Eileen.
The newlyweds are now on their honeymoon in Hawaii and I hope they are having a wonderful time.
Despite the sad start to the week, for my husband and I, it ended on a happier note.
Ditto to everything written. Holidays will not be the same without hearing “Hey Dooby” after walking through the door. I now find myself calling Natalie “baboo” every now and then. You couldn’t fit more uniqueness into a single person! Well said.
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A truly lovely, well deserved & heartfelt tribute to Chuck, my friend & neighbor. He was the epitome of a “Renaissance Man”—so gifted, so bright, talented & witty, but above all a kind & loving man.
My dear friend & neighbor, you will be sorely missed
Bless you,
Lynda
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Deb, that was beautifully written!! It brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face at the same time. A lovely tribute!
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