I know you all have been wondering where I’ve been over the past few months. This is, by far, the hardest post I’ve ever had to write. I had a major life change. My beautiful Mother went home to be with the Lord and it still seems so unreal. If you’re like me, you believe your parents are supposed to live forever. Literally…FOR-EVA. Especially our Mamas. I know that God’s ways are higher and His understanding is unsearchable…and there is solace in knowing that. We celebrated her life in true Sarah fashion! She was surrounded by LOVE and Light and I know she is watching over us.
She was beautiful with the sweetest soul. My best friend, an educator, fashionista, interior designer, and a lover of flowers and life, as well as the people in it. She left behind a beautiful legacy.
There was no way that I could carry on her legacy without sharing the blessing that was (and still is) her life. I had to find a way to go through this healing process in hopes of helping others who are traveling down this unforeseen road.
THERE IS HEALING IN GRIEVING.
I created a new blog and it’s called, Sarah’s Grace. It’s a way for me to celebrate my Mother, her life, our beautiful memories, life lessons she taught me, and a place for me to be transparent about this “new normal”. It will also be a place to talk about the dreaded process of grieving and living life after loss through HOPE and healing. It is definitely needed for such a time as this. You can read my first post here and my post on remembering my sweet Mama here. Make sure you subscribe!
As for me, I haven’t walked or ran a single mile since the Princess Half Marathon. Sarah would NOT approve. Lol! Then I lost my Fitbit Charge HR. I couldn’t even be mad. To be honest, things that I used to get bent out of shape about (ex. missing a run, not running fast enough, not having enough hours in the day, etc)…they just don’t matter. I refuse to feed things that are not worthy of my energy. LIFE has a way of getting our attention on what really IS and isn’t important. All I can do is the best that I can in the right now. When I was younger I would hear the old folk say… “keep living.” Those words couldn’t be more true today…especially in this season of my life. And it’s also true what they say…when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. Just live life for TODAY.
One day I will adjust to this “new normal”, because my Mother would not have it any other way. I’m working on it, Mama! I have a few races planned for the fall, but right now I’m on a hiatus and I really can’t tell you how long I will be on it. Then, add the injustices going on in the world over the past few weeks, I really need more time to process it all. I hope to get back to blogging regularly soon.
Thank you to everyone who has been so kind to me and my family during this difficult time. For every phone call, prayer, card, goodie basket, hot meal, kind word, Princess round-up…thank you! I love you all beyond words. I’m grateful to have such an abundance of love and support, my faith, and hope for the future to rest in.
Similar version of this post was published on SarahsGrace.com.
Tiffany says
<3
Tamieka Thomasson says
I am so sorry for your loss Artney. I can not even begin to feel your pain.
Sending prayers and healing to you and your family.
I can’t wait to read your stories overy at Sarah’s grace.
Artney says
Thank you, Tamieka! I appreciate all of the prayers! I’m really excited about SG! I’m glad you will be joining me over there. I hope all is well. :)
Ogechi says
My goodness!!! I am so sorry you lost your mom. I can’t even imagine. So sorry. Praying for you.
Artney says
Thank you so much! <3
Desiree says
Aww I’m so very sorry for the loss of your beloved mom. I can tell just how much she meant to you. ((HUGS)) and love.
Artney says
Thank you for my hugs and love! -XO
Kim says
I am so sorry for your loss Artney. Losing a parent is never easy. I lost my dad 21 years ago and it still hurts like it was yesterday. Pray God’s comfort over you and your family.
Artney says
Thank you so much, Kim! I appreciate all of your prayers! <3