I’ve often wondered what would draw me back to writing.
I miss the rhythm of it—and yet I haven’t returned.
This morning in church, I sensed it clearly:
it’s time.
May has become a month of remembering for me.
May 8, 2015
My Aunt Anita died.
We spent a lot of time together. She was matter-of-fact yet kind—stoic, loyal, and deeply devoted to family.
May 18, 2017
My Aunt Follie died.
We made regular trips to Canada to visit her. She kept her strength in spirit, even as Parkinson’s took it from her body.
May 21, 2018
My dad died after a seven-week illness.
His death changed my life. And yet, who I am today has been deeply shaped by him—and by my mom.
I will always carry him in my heart.
May 10, 2023
My Uncle Bob died.
He was married to Aunt Anita. They didn’t have children together, but he became someone I spoke with daily—just to make sure he was okay.
Aunt Anita had asked me to look out for him—and I did.
That relationship changed me for good.
May 25, 2025
My Aunt Dot died.
We did so much of life together. She was not only my aunt, but also my neighbor and dear friend.
We traveled. We shared meals, stories, laughter, and heartache.
But most of all, we shared family.
May is also the month we always celebrated Hermie—our dear, dear friend who became family.
We celebrated her life through her 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and all the way to 98.
Last year, on her birthday (May 30), she moved to Trillium Woods and began the final stage of releasing her grip on this world.
This morning in Church we sang Softly and Tenderly
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling
Calling for you and for me
See on the portals He’s waiting and watching
Watching for you and for me
Come home, come home
All who are weary come home
Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling
Calling, “O sinner come home”
O for the wonderful love He has promised
Promised for you and for me
Though we have sinned He has mercy and pardon
Pardon for you and for me
This song brought every face back to my heart this morning. The following video is why…it was a beautiful moment as Hermie was transitioning from this world to the one we all long for. We will all be called someday to come home…Jesus will call your name—“Come home.”
Grace and peace, ❤️ Trish
