I can’t count the number of times I tried to write a post about today, August 8th.  I cannot tell you how many times I began… then deleted.

Today is the first anniversary of the death of my mother-in-law, Flo… and the 34th anniversary of the death of my father, Bill.  It is ironic and sad and somehow relieving and even OK that the 2 saddest days of my life happened both on August 8th.

I dreaded this day.

But it is now almost over.  And it turned out to be a beautiful day.  I thank God and Flo and my Dad for this.  First, there was a very big swim meet today that 3 of my grandchild competed in.  Taylor, Maddie and Andrew.  Taylor qualified for finals tomorrow in both the 25 freestyle and 25 butterfly in 1st place.  Maddie qualified in 13th place for tomorrow’s 25 backstroke final, and Andrew and both girls will be swimming a relay.

Flo and Bill sent us this day, I am certain.  The sun was glorious, the clouds were whispy, the temperature was perfect… and my grandchildren were pumped with energy.  Barry and I visited Flo’s grave and placed lovely yellow and purple flowers.  My Dad is buried in Boston, and we are confident that Flo will pass along the flowers!

Then tonight, we all went to Flo’s favorite restaurant, Jack’s Family Restaurant, for her favorite meal… steamers, little necks, antipasto, calamari, spaghetti with clam sauce and  lots and lots of bread and butter.  And beer.  Of course. All of our children and grandchildren were there with us, and we ate and drank to Flo and Bill.  And I mean ate and drank!

I laughed all day.  I smiled a million smiles.  I ate a meal and a half.  And I felt the presence of angels…  all day.  All day.  I feel the legacy of Flo and Bill each time I look into the eyes of my beautiful grandchildren.

I could cry.  And I could smile.  I think I’ve done a bit of both today…