Thursday, February 14, 2013

Happy Valentine 's Day

This is a bittersweet
Valentine's Day 
for me.
It is the first Valentine's Day
in 59 years that has not
been celebrated by
my brother, Charlie.
Today I carry a 
Wounded Heart.

I want to thank each and every one
of you that took time to share
your thoughts and prayers with me.
It might take me a while but I will
reply to everyone that has a viable
email address....for those that 
don't-know that I read each
and every  comment and I am so blessed
to know how much you all care.

I know that time will take away
some of the pain.
I also know that Charlie was always a
Happy Soul.
He would not want us to mourn his death,
but rather to live in the joy of the day.

It was amazing to see all the people
that loved him step forward to 
offer condolences.
I don't think he had an enemy in 
the world.
He had a kind word to say about
everyone-finding good in even
the worst of situations.
I miss him....truly miss him.

But, as he left this world
on a laugh-here-
I know he would want ME to 
continue to spread laughter.
That is part of his legacy-
happiness and laughter.
So- today I have a very special
Valentine to send you-
One I know you have been 
waiting for-one I have saved
for this day.
Could there be ANYTHING more
HEART WARMING
than that?
~Happy Valentine's Day~
I will be back soon.
I promise.

your photo name

89 comments:

Beth said...

It is wonderful to see you back Diana. You and all of your family have remained in my prayers.

I love the valentine you have for us but I think I will let you keep him.

HUGS!!!

Lynne said...

Diana,
I love your "never let us leave without a smile or laugh" heart. What a gift of life's love you are to all that know you!

You and your family continue to be in my thoughts and prayers!
Happy Valentines Day!
~Lynne
w/L.

Musings from Kim K. said...

Take as much time as you need. We will all be here for you. Sending you extra hugs and prayers today.

Simply Debbie said...

DEAR, DEAR DIANA,
Blogland has been dark without your bubbly personality. You spread sunshine every where you go...just like Charlie.
I am so sorry you had to give up Charlie...I have never seen cancer spread that fast...it will take a while for the ache in your heart to heal.
How is Sherry doing?
It is so very good to have you back
love and hugs

Nonnie said...

It's so good to see you back - I have missed you. How wonderful to have a smile and a laugh to mix with the tears. xoxo Connie

Ivy, Phyllis and Me! said...

Dear Diana, Your brother sounds like he was a wonderful person, so full of joy and a person that it would have been a pleasure to know.
I am sending my prayers and my love to Sherry and to you....he will remain in your heart and every time you smile or laugh, you will think of him smiling and laughing aswell. God bless.
Daphne

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

You are in my thoughts and prayers my friend. Bittersweet is the perfect word. We always miss those we have lost but we keep the good memories, too. Sweet hugs, Diane

Unknown said...

Only you Diana - only you can make me go from tears in my eyes to smiling to wanting to vomit
Only special you!
XOX

Anonymous said...

that is one hairy man!!!!!!!I'm so glad you are back and your brother sounds so much like you, so sorry for your loss, take care,

Susie said...

Diana, I have been thinking of you and your family.Praying for all.
Now about that valetine...you know I don't like those hair shirts. It's almost scary. :):) xoxo,Susie

Anonymous said...

Oh dear Diana, you just know we're supporting you with our prayers. your brother left a wonderful legacy and I love his sense of humor and yours. Sending lots of hugs and a big ole box of virtual chocolate!
Blessings,
Shelia :)

Kelly said...

OMG! That is something else! Some poor soul had to do that for him too. Ewwwwww! I hope you can find some happiness today on this Valentine's Day. You could always release a helium filled heart shaped balloon up to heaven for your brother today......just a thought!

Janice Kay Schaub said...

So sorry for your loss, I know how much it hurts. You will remember all the fun times soon and the hurt will go away, at least will lesson.
Happy Valentines day...........
Janice

ℳartina @ Northern Nesting said...

Thinking of you Diana!! I miss posts like this:)

Donna said...

So glad to see you back, Diana. I'm so glad that you were able to have a close relationship with your brother, and that you both shared the gift of laughter. Leave it to you to throw in a laugh at the end of this post:)! Still holding you close in my prayers. You are truly a bright spot here in blogland for so many of us, you are loved!!! Happy V Day!

Laura @ duke manor farm said...

I have missed you but understand stepping back and celebrating your brothers life. I am so sorry to hear of his passing and pray that each day gets a bit easier for you and your family. Hugs to you!!

Jan said...

I'm so sorry for your pain at the loss of your brother. Losing a sibling is one of Life's saddest turns. He was a part of you, a best friend who loves you no matter what, a cohort when you were little and needed someone to help you get in kiddy trouble. At least that's what my brother is to me. Your heartfelt tribute has awakened me to the eventual loss of my siblings and how I sometimes take for granted that they'll always be near. -- Jan

Sweet Posy Dreams said...

Have been thinking about you. Happy Valentine's Day to you.

Patty Patterson said...

That looks itchy and gross!

And I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm happy for Anna Bella, though. She'll have a strong uncle in heaven whose shoulders she can ride on and whose lap she can sit one and he'll probably tell her all about you and her Momma and sisters so she'll have stories to tell when the rest of you get there.

Cheryl ~ ZanyMayd said...

Thinking of You Diana, sending you Hugs & Love ~
xox
Cheryl

Nancy @ The Headmistress said...

Thinking of you from afar, Diana. Enjoy lovely thoughts and beautiful memories on this Valentine's Day.
Now about that picture: that's just gross!!! :)
Nancy

Andrea at Opulent Cottage said...

Oh Diana, you are such an inspiration to all of us! I am so sorry for your loss, and yet in the midst of your loss you are keeping us entertained. You are in my heart today, and the hearts of all of us who love you so.
xoxoxo, Andrea

Tete said...

Charlie would be proud of this post. That is a nasty valentine, even for you. Well played.

Unknown said...

You are right....this picture made me LOL!! Praying for you and your family.

chris

Ruth Kelly said...

Hugs for you on this special day. You will see your brother again.

Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Oh Diana, I am so sorry I missed your post about the loss of your brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you today. God Bless. Hugs, Marty

Pam Kessler said...

I'm trying to eat lunch here!!! Hugs to you.

Miss Kitty said...

Oh, no! The heart carved into/out of the hair on the bear-like back looks very painful but was done to bring a smile to other's faces. Charlie's passing is painful for all of his family and friends but he brought joy to your lives. (I think he would have liked this picture, Diana...good job.)

Wendy@Once upon a rose haven said...

Hi Diana,
Bittersweet, indeed! You are too funny! Happy Valentine's Day!
XOXO
~Wendy

Ron said...

Diana, I am happy you are back. I missed you. Try and have a good V-day. Your brother is smiling down at you and sending you xoxoxoxos!!!

Dewena said...

Diana, so good to see you here again, sharing all the important things in your life. Hugs to you and your family.

I'm going to go text happy valentine's day to each of my sisters. We used to exchange cards until our own families grew but I know how I'd feel if one of them was missing today.

Tina@WhatWeKeep said...

Welcome back, Diana...we missed you.
Hugs a million, Tina

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

Oh mercy....that is something alright!
I hope you enjoy this day and only have sweet memories.

Anne said...

I have been thinking about you.So sorry for your loss.I will continue to pray for you all.I know your heart is broken I pray in time it will heal.
Thanks for the laugh! I bet you brother is looking down laughing at that funny Valentine too!
(((xx)))
Anne

Unknown said...

Oh, Diana. My heart bleeds for you. He sits with Jesus, what a joyous moment for him. I know you are lost without him, but hold closely your precious memories & love, they will help you every single day. I send to you sweet hugs & love ... know that prayer is lifted for you & his soul.

Happy Valentine's Diana ... God has His loving arms around your shoulder today.

TTFN ~
Hugs,
Marydon

Lucille said...

So sorry for your loss, dear Diana! I hate to see you in such pain. You have beautiful memories of him and that is priceless. You were blessed to have such a wonderful relationship with him. Like all those who are praying for you, I also will continue to do so. Hang in there.

Maureen Wyatt said...

There are a whole lot of hearts heading your way from all of us who love you!

Anonymous said...

I know your loss all too well. I lost my brother 10 years ago. He was my best friend, my neighbor and my forever pal. My heart breaks for you and I will keep you close in prayer.

Nellie said...

What a joy to have you back, Diana! I continue to send hugs and prayers! xo Nellie

SImple and Serene Living said...

Happy Valentine's Day sweetie.

Connie said...

My prayers are with you:)
Happy Valentine's Day

Celestina Marie said...

Dear Diana,
My thoughts have been with you each day and my prayers continue for comfort in the days ahead. You share with us a smile for the day and your brother is smiling too.

Wishing you a day filled with heartfelt memories and always the love you know and will always hold close.
Much love, Celestina Marie

Burlap Luxe said...

Prayers, many life prayers to you and your family.

Valentine love,
Hearts, Hugs, and Kisses your way.

Xox
Doré

Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary said...

Dear Diana, I am so glad your back but I know how much you miss your dear brother. You and your family are in my prayers daily.
Love, Mary

Susan Shull said...

I have been thinking about you and your family the last few days. Isn't it amazing how the internet connects us? So glad you are feeling up to posting and looking for the blessings in the heartache. Hugs to you!

Bonnie@Creative Decorating said...

Stay strong! You know I love you!

PS. I'll pass on the Valentine! Me and back hair don't mix!!

Japolina said...

Hugs to you. xoxo

Debby said...

She's back. So glad to see you. Take your time, we know that it takes time. I miss you. Hope you are taking care of yourself.
(((((HUGS)))))

Julie Marie said...

Been thinking of you... sending love to you this Valentines Day... xoxo Julie Marie

GARAGE SALE GAL said...

While your heart is mending,please know that we care....
Hoping that you will have a nice Valentine's Day!
As for Mr. shirtless...ick! LOL!
Warmly,
deb

Chenille Cottage said...

Dearest Diana,
My heart aches for your loss. What a precious relationship you had with your Charlie. You will have many happy moments remembering his love of laughter and kind heart.
Please know you will be in my prayers and I look forward to your return.
Lovingly,
Carolynn xoxo

Unknown said...

There will be so many bittersweet firsts so we'll just keep praying you through them.
I agree with Suzan's comments, especially the last part. She forgot to add projectile though. ;-)

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

Sweetheart, I am so, so sorry. I didn't know. I just read the prior post! Your poor dear sister in law.
My daughter has the same type of cancer your brother has. She is one of the very small percentage. I also ask myself why. She is fighting..
I am so terribly sorry.
My heart and love goes out to you and your family. I have been where you are..
Just before I read this post I had a call telling me my precious Aunt has just passed away. She was my mothers little sister and meant the world to me. We were very close. I was the daughter she never had.
Not my best Valentines Day...

Mona

NanaNor's said...

Diana, Girl you made me laugh at this and my heart is so heavy with you that I knew your brother is laughing too.
I understand the pain; my older sister went to glory almost 8 yrs ago and I miss her. Praying the Lord's grace and comfort for you dear friend.
Hugs and prayers, Noreen

Liz@ HomeandGardeningWithLiz said...

I miss you Diana. Please cheer up. Your photo cracked me up and it reminds me why I like you!! Plese take care and I hope you found a way to enjoy this Valentine's Day.
Liz

Faye said...

I am so sorry, I just caught up on your last post. What a cool guy he was and you have got that same sense of humor! My thoughts are with you.
Hugs,
Faye

Kirby Carespodi said...

So sorry for your loss, and I know that you will always have him close.

A.kennedy said...

Such a blessing you are Diana! As was Charlie. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Amanda Kennedy

Pura Vida said...

Nana Diana, I always see your happy sweet smile on so many comments and they are always so sweet and positive. When I heard of your loss, I tried to find you to tell you I was hoping you would feel back all that love you give. Regards, Gina

bj said...

My dear, Loni...uhhhh...Diana,
You have the happiest heart of anyone I've ever known....:))

Red Rose Alley said...

Hahaha... Oh Diana, Charlie would have laughed at that one, I'm sure. I have thought about you and missed you. I'm so glad that I got to say hello today. Happy Valentine's Day, dear friend.
~Sheri at Red Rose Alley

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Hello Diana,
My heart is breaking for you sweetie. I'll be thinking of you.

hugs
Sissie

The Polka Dot Closet said...

OH Diana, you make me cry and you make me laugh! Take the time you need, let us know how his wife is doing, I think of her often and still pray for Charlie every night

Carol

FABBY'S LIVING said...

Oh goodness, I needed a laugh and takes you to send it to me!!! That guy with heary back almost made me puke, lol..I'm sorry about your dear brother not been here, my heart goes out to his wife and his family, including you! Have a sweet Valentine's evening my pretty friend. Thanks for dropping by and for been such a generous lady.
FABBY

Nancy's Daily Dish said...

Diana,

I have taken a break from blogging also and am just trying to return a little after having some of my own health problems. I was so saddened to hear about your brother and now his passing. I'm praying that God will comfort you and your family in this time.
I often thank God for the ability to laugh and to have a sense of humor and here I see, that even in one of your most difficult hours, you're able to share and spread cheer still.

God bless you and yours,

Nancy

Janet said...

So glad you are back and wishing you a very blessed Valentine's Day.

Sew a Fine Seam said...

Been thinking about you the past couple days Diana! May God bless you and comfort you - Happy Valentines Day!

This N That said...

Been thinking about you...Hope you're OK..Miss you..Happy Valentines Day...

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Awww Diane, you heal your heart soon. You have so much love to share. I'm so sorry for your loss. In your grief, you have managed to make us smile.

Daniella said...

wow. That speaks volumes.
Coffee came out of my nose!!!!!
xxMy sweet Friend!!
Daniella

Gina said...

Lol! I'm sure Charlie is looking down, laughing at that one! Please know I've kept you & your family in my prayers.

Anonymous said...

Diana, I have been thinking of you and your family! I know this is a bitter sweet Valentine's Day. Just know hoe special you are to so many! You are in my prayers!

Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. said...

Girl, you have an amazing gift! Sending you love and hugs from Maryland!

Jettie said...

lol

Daniela @Frugal Aint Cheap said...

about the picture...meow! glad you are back. you are awesome!

Sarah said...

Diana, you have been in my thoughts. I know this is a painful time. Thinking of you.......Sarah

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss! Give yourself the time to grieve and remember the good times. Meanwhile I'm going to try to forget that hairy image!

Suzanne@Meridian Road said...

Oh, Diana! I am so, so sorry for your loss. It sounds like your brother was a wonderful man. I'm glad his passing was so peaceful and that he was surrounded by all his loved ones.
Take care, and keep laughing. That last photo really made me laugh. :)

Little Miss Maggie said...

Hi Diana, it's so nice to read your post. You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you did find some joy today even though it might have been bittersweet.

June said...

You are loved and in my prayers sweet friend. I am so sorry for your loss. Your brother sounds like a treasure...just like you!
much love...

farmhouse-story said...

too funny, and ewww!
i've been thinking about you--take care of yourself, diane:)

Maria Elena said...

So good to see you back, Diana! My thoughts and prayers have been with you through these hard times. Big, big hug!

Ann from On Sutton Place said...

Definitely take some time...you will find a "new" normal. The one thing you do have are great memories...cherish those!

Ricki Treleaven said...

What an amazing legacy your brother left the world. You are truly blessed!

{{{{{hugs}}}}},
RJ

Leena Milligan Lanteigne said...

Diana, you're right. Time will make it a bit easier and I know that the memories you have of your wonderful brother will ease the pain in your heart. I hope it does soon. I lost m brother in 1999 and I still miss him but it is easier. Ewwwww that hairy guy is way too much! I guess somebody has to love a guy who brings his own sweater LOL! Love ya! Leena

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

What a sweet Charlie! Hope your memories help the hurt go away.

Gypsy Heart said...

I've had all of you in my prayers and will continue to do so. The "firsts" are so very difficult so try to just go with the flow...don't be hard on yourself when grief strikes. It is different for everyone so be gentle with "you".

xoxo
Pat

Shabby Brocante, Karen said...

I am glad your're back, Diana. I need your sense of humor in my blogging world! I just love you! I am hoping that soon the good memories will take the forefront and out-weigh the heartache. Thinking of you! Hugs.
Karen

Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson said...

Oh sweetie, I am so sorry about your brother. Hugs and my prayers for your family.
Jann