“Giving my mother something to live for, while she moves on…” summarises your blog and your life mission right now so beautifully. That’s what struck me the moment I visited your blog. You’re also very wise in using this time to prepare for the tough times later when you’re without your mum. My mum is my staunchest ally and I hate to imagine what life would be like without her.

You’ll find Laura’s book very useful, I’m sure. Apart from the practical tips, contact details and referrals, just the stories that she tells about other people who have walked the final journey will fortify you. Maybe your uncle would like to read it too.

Glad to hear your mum laughed and took an interest – laughter is one of the best ways to deal with a sad and difficult situation. It reminds us that in the end, and at the end, life can be joyful.

Your wite exceptionally well and I so appreciate your appreciation of my aspirations in giving my mother something to live for, while she moves on … and I hope others to whom these posts can be read as a daily letter .. or as stimulating story .. which trigger other thoughts pertinent to that family, those friends.

I am overwhelmed .. so much so .. I don’t know what to do!! I think go to bed and have sweet dreams ..

By the way .. I had actually printed out Laura Larsen’s book “Facing The Final Mystery” .. so that I could order it – I’ll do that tomorrow early. It looks very interesting. My mother is in a Nursing Centre for the dying and I’ve been with two friends .. while their wife, or their father died .. and it’s been a good learning curve – as I’ve been able to be positive for them – whiel my uncle, who is also part of this process lost his wife (my father’s sister) 4 years ago & he’s a great boon & support .. he says I keep him alive too!!

I am going to take my thoughts to my bed!! Thank you so much again – on what’s turned out to be a wonderful day .. and my Mum laughed and took an interest again ..

All the very best – with love Hilary

I’ve just written an entire blog post in response to this comment and your blog in general. Thanks for sharing the genesis of your blog and what it’s all about. It’s an amazing blog and you’re an amazing lady for doing this.

I would have guessed that your Ideal Reader is your mother, and that is just perfect. There is no need to change this, in my totally irrelevant opinion. Sure, many others read your blog and it will bring inspiration to many, especially if you write a book about your experiences. Stephen King had millions of actual readers, yet he still wrote for one person above all, his wife. In the same way, I gather from reading your blog that you’re writing for one person above all, your mum. I can’t tell you how moved I am.

I’m so glad you’re working with Gio. She’s strong and wise and is a great person to work through the process with you. I’m rooting for you and will be happy to help if any way too.