My mother’s death and the week of unpleasant responsibilities ending with the memorial and burial: it’s finally over. The pain and sadness and devastating grief is still with me. However, I must admit that I do feel relieved that’s all over, and now I can try to begin the process of healing.

We will be honoring my mother on Wednesday May 24th at the Chapel of the Chimes on Mission Blvd. in Hayward, CA. Everyone is welcome to join us, but please, do not wear black. My mother’s favorite color was purple, and so we will be wearing that instead.

Services start at 1:30pm.

1:30pm to 2:30pm open casket visitation for those who need to see her and say goodbye

2:30pm to ? closed casket memorial services with burial to follow

After that we will return to our house for a party in my mother’s honor. This is a party, not a wake. My mother would be very upset if we didn’t try to laugh and remember the good times =)

I have to do this. This, being one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do in my life. I know that what I write here could never do my mother the justice she deserves. But I have to do this here and now.

Yesterday, as I was getting ready to go fishing with Dave I heard my father screaming. I ran upstairs and found my mother passed out on the floor. I immediately called 911.

She was lethargic and very weak and could not speak, but she could nod and shake her head, yes and no. The fire department and paramedics arrivedly quickly and took her to Eden hospital, the place where I was born 34 years ago.

A blood vessel had burst inside her head. She soon went into a deep coma. At 12:25 am on May 18th 2006 she passed away.

I will be missing in action for an indeterminate amount of time.

I love you Mom. I miss you.