The Mrs of the couple I provide care for passed away yesterday evening.

Last night, her daughter-in-law's best friend gave birth to a baby girl.

As one leaves, another comes and so the circle continues.

I am always amazed at how, when a person has passed away, it becomes very apparent a few moments after their death that who they were; their essence, their soul.....that that part of them has left and the only thing that's left is a mere shell.  I can't put my finger on what it is that changes, all I can say is that it DOES change and that it's very obvious.  I had come home for an hour or so yesterday to grab a change of clothes and my toothbrush so I could stay overnight and the Mr could get a decent night's sleep (he got an hour's sleep between Sunday morning and yesterday morning) - and as I was preparing to hop in the shower I got a call from the family saying that they thought she had gone but that they weren't sure and was I available to come over.

Of course I was available. 

When I got there, it was very obvious to me that the Mrs had departed.  I didn't even have to feel for (the lack of) a pulse, I could see from across the room that she was no longer with us.

I didn't have time to pack a toothbrush but I stayed overnight anyway.  I didn't think it was proper for the Mr to spend the night alone. 

The funeral will be before the end of the week, and I imagine that the church will be packed.  The Mrs was a popular lady; she had a kind and generous soul and hardly ever had a bad word to say about anyone.  Two of my kids have asked to attend the funeral (the eldest and the youngest) - they both came to work with me regularly and the Mrs just loved to see them and visit with them.  I think that they're mature enough to attend - and they were the ones that asked me if they could please go.

Farewell, sweet lady.  Thank you for allowing me to care for you, for letting me be a part of your life.  I consider myself forever blessed to have known you.

Namaste, my friend.