Wednesday, March 1, 2017

"How are all the animals?"


My mom asked me that question at the start of every phone conversation 
we had for the past 24 years.


She died Monday morning, knowing that "they're all doing fine." 


I took this photo (reflected off a mirror) in November 2012.
It's the last one of the whole family together. 
This is how I will remember my mom – laughing and smiling 
with love in her heart for everyone.


Posted by at

101 comments:

  1. Kathy3/1/17, 4:22 AM

    Oh, so sad. Brings tears to my eyes. I'm sorry. Hugs.

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  2. Anonymous3/1/17, 4:37 AM

    My deepest sympathy. I lost my mom many years ago, it's hard.
    Lee Anna

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  3. Farmer Barb3/1/17, 4:50 AM

    That joy and enthusiasm for the ones she loved will color every day that you live. I think of my dad that way.

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  4. RVVagabond3/1/17, 4:56 AM

    I'm so sorry for your loss. Losing your mother is hard no matter what your age. Love that final photo--your mom looks like she would be a fun person to know. Hugs.

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  5. WendyFromNY3/1/17, 4:59 AM

    I am so, so, sorry. I felt like such an orphan when my folks died. I miss them every day. Prayers for peace for you and your sister.

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  6. Gina3/1/17, 5:00 AM

    So sorry for your loss.

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  7. Ethel3/1/17, 5:04 AM

    Oh Carse, this is perfect! I'll always remember her smart-ass comments to me in high school, so funny. Such a beautiful woman with so much love in her soul. You are just like her.

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  8. Bee Haven Bev3/1/17, 5:12 AM

    Carson.... I am so sorry for your loss.

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  9. Anonymous3/1/17, 5:21 AM

    I am so sorry.

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  10. Pat in east TN3/1/17, 5:23 AM

    I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother Carson. I am sure you brought her much joy over the years sharing your life with your animals. The family photo you shared is precious ... keep it close to your heart.

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  11. Rita B.3/1/17, 5:27 AM

    My sincere condolences Linda. There never seems to be any right words at these times, but know that so many of us will be thinking of you and your family in the days to come.

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  12. Unknown3/1/17, 5:28 AM

    I'm so sorry for your loss.

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  13. Calm, Forward, Straight3/1/17, 5:46 AM

    (((hugs)))

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  14. Shelley3/1/17, 5:48 AM

    I remember thinking when you first posted this pic what a perfect color blue that was on your Mom. The best Moms understand our passions. Sending my condolences.

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  15. MadSnapper3/1/17, 5:53 AM

    My heart hurts for those of you left behind. She looks so happy and full of joy and I can tell she loved animals like you do from that first photo. hugs and prayers and my sympathy

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  16. Sheila3/1/17, 5:59 AM

    So sorry for your loss. We all love to hear stories and see pictures of your mom. Take care.

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  17. Anonymous3/1/17, 6:26 AM

    Words are inadequate. I am so sorry. Wishing I could help in some way...

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  18. Linda3/1/17, 6:29 AM

    I am so sorry.

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  19. JaneK3/1/17, 6:30 AM

    Hugs to you. What joy she has in that smile! Your parents seemed like amazing people from everything you have shared. I know you will miss her as you miss your dad!

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  20. Northern AB gal3/1/17, 6:33 AM

    So sorry, may your memories comfort you in the coming days.

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  21. Sue S.3/1/17, 6:42 AM

    Your Mom looks like she was a bright light for any place she was with her love and smile.

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  22. WPgirl3/1/17, 6:43 AM

    So sorry Linda. Hoping the happy memories give you peace.
    Lynda in Michigan

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  23. Anonymous3/1/17, 6:46 AM

    I'm so sorry. There's just no comfort in those first few days. RIP Linda's mom.

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  24. western images3/1/17, 6:49 AM

    So sorry for your loss. Hugs.

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  25. Grey Horse Matters3/1/17, 7:06 AM

    I'm so sorry for your loss. Our moms are our anchors and keep us grounded it's so hard for us when we lose them.

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  26. Jenny3/1/17, 7:12 AM

    I'm so sorry to hear this. My deepest sympathies.

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  27. TeresaA3/1/17, 7:15 AM

    That was always the first thing my mother asked as well. She passed away a year ago. I am sorry for your loss. Life is very different when your mother is gone.

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  28. JudyB3/1/17, 7:26 AM

    Oh, Carson, I'm so very sorry and send you my deepest sympathy and lots of hugs.

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  29. I need orange3/1/17, 7:36 AM

    I am so sorry for your loss. Sending much sympathy.

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  30. wenparl3/1/17, 7:37 AM

    I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. It doesn't matter how old we are losing a parent is tough. And I know you've already lost your dad. I'm glad she was able to share your love for your critter family. Sending you our love and hugs.

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  31. Rebecca23/1/17, 7:48 AM

    Oh, No. Ditto, Sue S. Your mom looks like love shining brightly. Its okay to use the present tense; she will always be with you.

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  32. D'lila3/1/17, 7:56 AM

    so very sorry for your loss.

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  33. Kelly H.3/1/17, 8:05 AM

    I am so sorry, Linda. No words do it justice.

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  34. Anonymous3/1/17, 8:06 AM

    I am very sorry. I am thinking of you.

    Laurie

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  35. Anne Boleyn3/1/17, 8:08 AM

    I rejoice! It is so clear that she did life well and now she will rest in gentle peace.
    The picture of her and George (I think) is so beautiful!
    We miss them but we do not lose them.
    XO to you and your family!❤️

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    Replies
    1. Unknown3/1/17, 8:54 AM

      So well said Anne, we do rejoice in a life well lived with a family who loved them! Linda - may the memories be precious and comforting.
      Lisa G in TN

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    2. Auntie Em3/1/17, 7:39 PM

      I couldn't have said it better than you two. My own words fail me now. Every time I'd see a picture or comment about Linda's dad my heart would ache for you. Now it doubly aches for you. Much love to all of you. Auntie Em in TN

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  36. Rain Trueax3/1/17, 8:11 AM

    So sorry for your loss but how wonderful to have had such a great relationship with her

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  37. Nadine in WV3/1/17, 8:15 AM

    I am very sorry and I am sending you my deepest sympathies.

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  38. Finding the Happy3/1/17, 8:28 AM

    Oh Carson, my heart is with you and your siblings. Any time you miss her, look in the mirror and smile...she's right there.

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  39. Marie 3/1/17, 8:43 AM

    I'm so very sorry for your loss. thank you for sharing these photos. the first one is such a beautiful moment captured. her smile is contagious.
    hugs to you and you will be kept in my thoughts and prayers.
    Marie

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  40. Saundra3/1/17, 8:54 AM

    Linda,
    So sorry for your loss. What a beautiful smile & her laughing in your precious family portrait that captured the joy and love of your family. Whatever you "believe" I bet there's a lot of 'souls' who welcomed her. Sandy (a Lurker in Calif.)

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  41. lilyrose3/1/17, 8:54 AM

    I'm so sorry Carson. May all your memories bring you comfort.

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  42. thecrazysheeplady3/1/17, 9:04 AM

    {{{hug}}}

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  43. Michelle from Vancouver3/1/17, 9:10 AM

    Very sorry to hear about the loss of your Mom.

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  44. The Dancing Donkey3/1/17, 9:27 AM

    I am so very sorry.

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  45. Anonymous3/1/17, 9:30 AM

    I'm so sorry. What a beautiful smile. Prayers, my friend. Aunt Jean

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  46. Unknown3/1/17, 9:58 AM

    My condolences to you and your mom's friends and loved ones. She must have been a fantastic person since she helped make you as special as you are.

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  47. Shirley3/1/17, 10:21 AM

    Sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

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  48. Elsewhere3/1/17, 10:35 AM

    Then that's how I will remember her too.
    You come from good stock, Carson.
    We're thinking of you.
    love from Amsterdam,
    Els

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  49. Sandy3/1/17, 10:47 AM

    Hey Linda,
    I am sorry to hear about your beautiful Mom.
    Losing a dear loved one is bittersweet. May
    the Lord comfort you. He will, I know...I lost
    my hubby of 34 years this past July and the Lord is
    comforting me.
    Love from NC

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  50. Anonymous3/1/17, 11:04 AM

    You are a brave women. I am so sorry about your news. Take care.

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  51. Ellen3/1/17, 11:07 AM

    Sorry to hear. Your family is in all our prayers.

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  52. Bobby3/1/17, 11:18 AM

    I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you are able to find peace and comfort in knowing how very loved and clearly happy she was. <3

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  53. Anonymous3/1/17, 11:18 AM

    So sorry for your loss and may she RIP. She seems like such a lovely lady and I'm sure she was loved by all. Betsy

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  54. Anonymous3/1/17, 11:22 AM

    So, so sorry for your loss... Diana in Maryland

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  55. Peg3/1/17, 11:50 AM

    I'm so sorry for your loss. Your mom looked like a truly happy person who would make anyone around her happy, too. I'm a firm believer that she and your dad are now together again and hope that thought can bring you peace. (((HUGS)))

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  56. Anonymous3/1/17, 11:56 AM

    I am so deeply sorry to read this news. She had such a beautiful smiled and just looked like she thoroughly enjoyed life. It doesn't matter how old we are when it happens but losing a mom is absolutely heartbreaking. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
    Your RI contingent

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  57. Alice in NZ3/1/17, 11:58 AM

    I'm so sorry, Linda. I know you will miss your wonderful Mum. In time your memories will comfort you, I'm sure. Thinking of you at this hard time.

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  58. Anonymous3/1/17, 12:02 PM

    Oh Carson, so very sorry that your Mom has passed. I just got back from my Mom's, she had gall bladder surgery. It's a real reminder of how fragile life is and that we should be grateful for every day and every memory. My Mom is doing fine and we are so blessed to still have her. Hugs.
    KarenTX

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  59. Briarose3/1/17, 12:04 PM

    oh honey I am so sad for you...sending gentle hugs

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  60. C in WI3/1/17, 12:07 PM

    I'm so sorry for your loss. Hugs from Wisconsin to you.

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  61. Nooce3/1/17, 12:11 PM

    Oh honey, I'm so sorry to hear this. Hugs to you from your fellow native Ohioan no longer living in Ohio.

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  62. Sara3/1/17, 12:11 PM

    So sorry for your loss. Hugs.

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  63. Danni3/1/17, 12:21 PM

    A lovely post for your momma. The picture with George is so special. I've always thought she had a smile that lit up her face and everything around her. She loved you so much. xo

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  64. Vicki3/1/17, 12:35 PM

    Very sorry that you have lost your dear mother. I know she meant so much to you and she lived so far away. May she rest in peace.

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  65. slingback3/1/17, 12:41 PM

    Such lovely photos of your mom - look how she laughes at the third one, she was probably someone people wanted to be around. I'm so sorry for your loss. Valgerd in Oslo

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  66. Unknown3/1/17, 12:44 PM

    Much love to you at this time. I miss my mother every day. I love seeing that picture of your mother surrounded by all of you.

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  67. Ruth3/1/17, 12:57 PM

    So sorry to hear about this. She looks like a wonderful lady.

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  68. Mrs Shoes3/1/17, 1:43 PM

    Deeply sorry to hear of your loss; my condolences.

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  69. Anonymous3/1/17, 1:55 PM

    So glad she left knowing the animals are all OK. You can tell her that everyday. Hugs.

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  70. Cyndi and Stumpy3/1/17, 3:21 PM

    I'm so sorry for your loss, Linda. I hope that smile and all the wonderful memories you made together will help you find solace.

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  71. Jan B3/1/17, 4:19 PM

    So sorry Linda. She raised a wonderful caring daughter.She must have cared for animals like you do...a good way to live life.

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  72. Carine3/1/17, 4:25 PM

    this is a beautiful memory. sharing your psadness and sending you a lot of warm thoughts

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  73. Diane K. Eastern NC3/1/17, 5:18 PM

    So sorry. Hugs and prayers for comfort.

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  74. KathyB3/1/17, 5:32 PM

    Wonderful memory. Thank you for sharing the news. Sending all good thoughts.

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  75. Cindi Myers3/1/17, 7:18 PM

    I am so so sorry.
    My very deepest of sympathies.
    xoxoxo

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  76. Anonymous3/1/17, 7:59 PM

    So sorry to hear about your Mom. I hope you find comfort in your animals and memories.

    Anna

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  77. Anonymous3/1/17, 10:17 PM

    Oh, Linda, that mirror photo must make you smile. And cry. So sorry to hear you have lost your dear mom.

    Sam in Texas

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  78. Judith3/2/17, 12:13 AM

    I just loved hearing about your mom and dad over the years. They were such good people and parents. I'm so sorry. Lots of hugs to you and your family.

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  79. Irmgard3/2/17, 5:01 AM

    My heartfelt condolences to you and your sister, I am deeply sorry for your loss.
    Your mom's gesture in the last photo is the same my mom used to make (she passed four years ago) when we made her crack up...

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  80. billie3/2/17, 5:50 AM

    Love and hugs from November Hill.

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  81. Jil Browne3/2/17, 7:10 AM

    So sorry for your loss, Carson. I know how much you'll miss her and her phone calls. I sure do miss my Moms Sunday calls, even after nearly 10 years.

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  82. Pix 3/2/17, 8:24 AM

    I am so sorry. These three pictures are beautiful... she is beautiful.

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  83. Unknown3/2/17, 11:55 AM

    My sincere condolences to you and your family on the passing of your lovely Mom. Hold tight your feathered and furry family on your ranch and they will help you through this difficult time.

    Linda D. in Tucson, AZ

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  84. Beth3/2/17, 2:56 PM

    I'm so sorry for your loss.

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  85. An American in Tokyo3/2/17, 5:06 PM

    My deepest condolences for your loss.
    I hope your Mom is laughing it up and enjoying it in heaven! =)
    I think you must have gotten your great sense of humor from her!
    Hugs to you!

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  86. Martha3/2/17, 7:25 PM

    I am truly sorry for the loss of your Mom. I send my heartfelt condolences and lots of hugs.

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  87. CeeCee3/3/17, 4:32 PM

    Oh my, I'm just now seeing this.
    Both of my parents are gone--my Daddy many years ago. My brain would not quiet itself when I lost my mom. I had so many discussions with myself about not having any parents at all. Like you, it is just my sister and I.
    There are a million platitudes I could offer, but often the very best thing to say is that I'm sorry for your loss and in this case, I understand. Take care of yourself, your heart, your spirit, your body.
    If you'd ever like to just talk it through, you can lean on me anytime.
    Hugs, CeeCee

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  88. T.L. Merrybard3/3/17, 10:10 PM

    I see so much of you in your mum there in that list pic I'm glad she was such a lovely mum, but i'm sorry now that you will miss her so much more because of who she was. xxx

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  89. sumik3/3/17, 10:49 PM

    I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my mother 20 years ago (Yikes!) and sometimes it feels like yesterday.

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  90. Anonymous3/4/17, 5:06 AM

    I'm playing catch-up re: my favorire blogs, and just saw the post about your mother. I'm so very sorry for you and your family's loss. The comments from everyone are lovely; although she may no longer be here 'in the flesh', she'll always be in your hearts, and those memories, I'm sure, are precious. I love that she began every phone call inquiring about your animals -- now you'll have another loving caretaker keeping a watchful eye over yours in Heaven. Maggy

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  91. Deb3/4/17, 10:31 AM

    So sorry for your loss. She looks like a lover of life and animals! Love the family photo, a keeper!

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  92. John3/4/17, 12:38 PM

    I am so sorry, Linda. It looks like your mom had a good sense of humor. And the way she started phone conversations shows she knew what matters to you. I wish you peace and understanding.

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  93. Thefarmerswife3/4/17, 1:56 PM

    I am so sorry for your loss. We know she is in a better place, but that doesn't mean that we don't miss them down here.

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  94. Anonymous3/6/17, 1:40 PM

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know how much this hurts.

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  95. 13ahamoments.com3/6/17, 1:40 PM

    I am so sorry to hear about your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Cling to your family and animals. They will help you through. Remember the smiles, the laughs, and the love.

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  96. Steph B. Riker3/6/17, 2:43 PM

    I am so very sorry for your loss.

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  97. ninergirl043/7/17, 11:11 AM

    So sorry to read of your great loss. From all the comments you've posted, you were a lucky daughter to have such a wonderful mom. May your many memories of her sustain you. ♥♥

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  98. Anonymous3/9/17, 5:57 AM

    You have my deepest sympathy. I lost my mom five weeks ago. It's been an emotional roller coaster ride since but having read your blog I know your mom raised an extremely capable, intelligent, independent, and loving woman (as did mine). They will always be in our hearts. My critterkids have provided much solace. Treat yourself to a long ride on Lucy, walk with Smooch, extra stroke to the feral beast. I've also found cleaning stalls, picking poop, etc. therapeutic. :) Sending hugs!

    Dee

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  99. Anonymous3/13/17, 2:41 PM

    So very sorry Carson. I remember your Mom as a very sweet lady. Always smiling and genuinely interested in your friends. You and your sister were blessed.
    Lynn-El

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