Frances

I don't know if I'll be posting a lot. My step mom Frances passed away this week. We were very close, she wasn't the scary step mom. In one of our past conversations she told me that she fell in love with me the first time she saw me.

She has always been encouraging, caring, and understanding when my mom wasn't. Don't get me wrong, I love my mom. But Fran was my other mom. I'm so grateful that I was able to speak to her a couple of weeks ago. I told her I was trying to get home in July to see a friend who would also be home and that I would get over to see her. She said that she knew I would be busy with my friends and not to worry. I told her that even though my trip would be short, I would make it to see her.

She took me to my first restaurant where I got my first alcoholic drink when I was 18. Yes, I'm dating myself. I felt so adult and she taught me how to accept a drink from a man at the bar who said we were two beautiful ladies. I giggled and I remember her smile. I felt so adult and cosmo. Back then it was really nice when a man could buy you a drink and not expect anything. There was 'class' back then.

She was very supportive in my move down south and always told me not to give up, that very special and wonderful things were coming my way. She listened to me while I cried in frustration and told me that it was okay to cry but always look towards the better future.

Fran had asked for a quilt to take with her to dialysis. She said that she knew I was busy but if I could make her one that would be nice because they didn't always have enough blankets. I said yes and I had just cut it out when I got the news of her passing.

I was shocked. I was angry. I thought about throwing the pieces and fabric away. I cried a whole day. I talked to a friend about the quilt and asked her what she thought about a miniature quilt that I could place in her casket. She thought that would be a good thing. I will cut some of the pieces down and make a miniature quilt for Frances.

I know some people don't get a chance to say 'good-bye' or 'I love you' to those they do love and admire. I am so happy that the last words we said were, 'I love you.'

She will always be in my heart and I have the many fond memories of our time together.

I love you Frances. You are with the angels.