Sunday, June 27, 2010

The Friendship of Women


My nephew's graduation party was a gathering of the Ya Ya Sisterhood. I have six sister-in-laws! Chairs in a circle that ever expands as our daughters draw close to hear our stories, their babies bare chested to catch any wisp of cool air. We have come together to celebrate the friendship of women as our patriarch begins her journey home.


In the last few days, Ruth has awakened from her lengthening sleep calling out the names of her childhood friends.


As we pass from hand to hand the photos of her youth I like to think our laughter reaches her in the way the sunlight reaches us through the ancient tree above our heads.


Glimpses of bright blue water and deep forest green. The thrill of graduation independence, a last summer to share, responsibilities not yet settled on the shoulders.


Careers will begin and set aside when hoped for love finds it's way to them. Homes and families will fill their days, and they will watch children napping on blankets spread within their own gathering circle.


Ruth has been blessed with daughters who are friends, whose children are friends, whose children will be friends.


She begins her journey home this weekend as the friendship of women hold her heart within their own.



13 comments:

BucksCountyFolkArt said...

I'm loving the clothes they wore! Feminine and fun!!

Jill

Kateyed said...

Elizabeth,
What a beautiful post!!! I just feel like crying from the joy and sadness and the beauty of what you
said...thank you!!! I am so accepted by my husband's family and I think that is why my feelings are so intense!!!

Hugs,
Suz

Home and Heart said...

*Sigh* I am crying like a baby! You have such a beautiful way with words. Your create pictures that come alive. Your talents are many, and they enrich the lives of everyone who comes in contact with you!

Cindy said...

Elizabeth this was expressed so beautifully! I bet she is proud of you also! The way you are as a long distant friend to us out here..I know you must be an awesome daughter-in-law to her. She has to know how much you loved her son!!
I will be praying for you and your family during this time.

Hugs..Cindy from Rick-Rack and
Gingham

Unknown said...

Elizabeth,
This can be such a hard time....my MIL was one of my best friends! I miss her still....please take care of yourself and your husband as his Mom makes that last journey home.....

Beedeebabee said...

Hi Elizabeth,

This is a beautiful post, and so touching. Your MIL must be so, so special. Keeping you in my thoughts at this very hard time.

Paulette

Anonymous said...

what a wonderful post...
love the photos...
reminds me of some i have of my mom and grandma...
those were the days!!!
~victoria~

Debby said...

I hope her journey is pleasant. What a beautiful post. She is blessed to have family like you and her children. You are in my thoughts and prayers this week.

Twyla and Lindsey said...

Elizabeth, you are so fortunate to have this big loving family. Thank you for sharing the wonderful photos. Twyla

Unknown said...

What a touching post. The pictures were so dear. Thank you so much for sharing them. Your whole family are in my prayers at this time.

marie said...

Such a lovely post full of beautiful words!
Thank you for sharing the wonderful photos!

D. Jean Quarles said...

After reading the other comments I don't feel so silly that I, too, am crying. Beautiful post. Your words - perfect. Have a great week.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on this great job and give us the opportunity to 'fill up' smart!
voyance serieuse par mail