Remembering...

Monday (25th April) would have been my mother's 61st birthday. She passed away almost seven years ago from cancer. I was only 13. I know it's hard to lose your mum at any age, but it really hit me hard. She was not just my mum; she was my only carer, my best friend, my advisor. I didn't know how I was going to cope without her.

Seven years on, I still think about her and miss her desperately, but not as much as in the early days. It does make me a bit sad to think that I don't think of her everyday, but I know she would want me to get on with my life and not dwell on her passing too much. When she passed away, I was worried that I would forget her; her smell, the feel of her skin, her laugh, her mannerisms. But I don't think I'll ever forget. I see her everywhere; a song on the radio, a certain smell, a snippet of conversation. They all bring back wonderful memories of her and our life together.

I think I've been thinking about her a lot more lately as my brother's wedding is getting closer. It will be a difficult day without Mum there, but I know she would have been so incredibly proud of Jammy and will be there in spirit.

Mum's favourite flower

Happy birthday Mum! I love you and miss you so very much.