Sunday, November 29, 2009

Now and Forever



One year ago today, Linda left us. As we look back at all the entries in this blog, it occurred to us that far too much of it is about Linda’s illness. While it was certainly the catalyst that brought all together, years from now this should not be a testament to how she died, but rather to how she lived. No one who knew her was surprised at how bravely she dealt with her illness, but if some stranger should come upon this blog, what you should really understand is that Linda showed us all how to live and enjoy a full life, while committing herself to helping and inspiring everyone around her. She was our friend, our teacher, our mentor and so much more. Each of us is a different and better person because Linda let us into her life. We can never forget her, because she is part of who we are.

Jim, Andrea, Tony (and Linda)

Andrea has posted her own memories of her mother today on her own blog, and would like to share them with you. Just follow this link: http://talleybaby.blogspot.com/2009/11/one-year.html

Sunday, November 22, 2009

I Will


Hi everyone. One week from now will be the one year anniversary of Linda's passing. I've heard lots of people who have lost a loved one say this, but it's true--some days it seems like 10 years, and other days it seems like yesterday. The 9:30 Mass at St. John's next Sunday is being said for Linda, and I know many of her family and friends plan on being there. We will go over to the cemetery afterwards, and bring our flowers and memories with us. If anyone would like to stop by our house on Sunday, Sue Burns has volunteered to serve brunch here, so all you have to bring is your favorite story about Linda. Tony and Beth may be here also. Any time after noon would be a good time to meet us back at the house. We would love to see you.

Andrea and I are working on something special for the blog post next Sunday. In the meantime, the picture here is one of my favorites, taken on our second trip to Hawaii outside of a restaurant on Maui, obviously at sunset. I thought I would also share "our song" with everyone. To no great surprise, it's from the Beatles, and I first sang it to her nearly 40 years ago in the back of Tony Gerhardstein's car. We never realized it would have as much meaning now as ever before. I still sing it to her every week--

I Will

Who knows how long I've loved you
You know I love you still
Will I wait a lonely lifetime
If you want me to I will

For if I ever saw you
I didn't catch your name
But it never really mattered
I will always feel the same

Love you forever, and for ever
Love you with all my heart
Love you whenever we're together
Love you when we're apart

And when at last I find you
Your song will fill the air
Sing it loud so I can hear you
Make it easy to be near you
For the things you do endear you
To me oh, you know I will
I will

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

A Fitting Tribute



I went over to Badin High School today and got to see Sue Niehaus, Gina Helms, Dirk Allen, Linda Weathers and Frank Margello. I just dropped by to see the new window to the Campus Ministry Office. The picture doesn't really do the artwork justice, and it really is a work of art. I'll try to get a better picture later, but these will have to do for now. It's just to the right of the main entrance to the school, where every student walks by, every morning. Gina says it's added a lot of pressure to her job now, knowing she has a legacy to live up to every time she walks into her office.
I imagine there will be a lot more posts in the coming weeks approaching the one year anniversary. Not sure what we'll do yet, but I will let you know.
Love ya,
Jim (& Linda)