June! It's Summertime!!!!

June is one happening month!!! So many things we commemorate are celebrated in June. June is known for Father's Day, Flag Day, schools letting out for summer break, and many graduation ceremonies. Many brides marry in June. Summer officially begins in June. The longest day of the year usually occurs on two of my sons' birthdays on the exact same day June 21st (but 10 years apart)! By June, the trees, shrubs, and flowers are in full bloom and the landscape is more naturesque and beautiful too.

June is a happy month ~ maybe because there is so much celebrating going on! It's easy to get caught up in the spirit of the month and find yourself super active with a very loaded social calendar in June. I've already been to a graduation party, a cancer fundraiser boat ride on the Nautica Queen, a father's day smooth jazz boat ride on the Goodtime III, a wedding, a 50th wedding anniversary party, a women's networking luncheon at the golf course, a great jazz concert at the Bop Stop, and hosted a visit from my out of state family relatives! Wow! that's a lot and the month isn't over yet.

Even though I'm sort of exhausted, at the same time I feel exhilarated! You see, everything I did put me in a situation to be exposed to others and engage with them. Whether it was through conversation, laughter, dancing, eating and drinking I found myself loosening up and enjoying the occasion and the people around me.

I'm also noticing that by being so busy and engaging with other people I haven't cried as much or had so many moments of being sad and feeling lonely for Mike. Of course, he is still in my heart and I still think about him every single day, but I'm starting to realize I'm not so deeply pained and hurting when I see his many pictures around the house, or walk in my closet and see his clothes, shoes and hats on the shelves or hanging up on his side of closet.

I suppose I can rightly say that I'm slowly healing and moving forward in my life.

None of this was planned. It's just happening organically as I allow myself to stay engaged in my life and experience new opportunities. I think this is the best way to do it, because it feels so natural. I don't think I'll ever fully recover from losing Mike. The best thing that ever happened to me was meeting him. My mom always said "God sent you Mike". At first, I sorta blew it off but after 2 years of dating and 40 wonderful blessed years of marriage I know she was right I'll alway love him and remember him in the most fondest ways.

Have you found yourself feeling motivated to get back into the swing of things and reengage and participate in your life once again after experiencing your loss of a loved one? If so, would you feel comfortable sharing your story and how you may be coping with your grief in this safe, nonjudgmental community space for healing? We would love to hear from you. God Bless You!!!