I followed my heart and it led me to the beach.

When mom was at hospice, we had some hard truthful talks. I told her that I have a special place by the river that I go to talk to dad. It’s a specific log that I sit on, where I can see the rolling river by my house. I asked her where she would like our special spot to be once she passes. She wanted to take some time to think about it and pick the perfect spot. A few days later, out of nowhere, she says, “I’ve picked a spot, the bench by the church”. I of course thought of mom’s home church across the street from their house, and thought, that do-able. Then she elaborated, “you know the stone bench by St Mary’s by the Sea?” I looked at her and smiled, then said “absolutely”. She picked a bench outside of the church at Rockaway Beach, OR, 8 hours away from our hometown. Inside I was laughing so hard.

This week my family has returned to Rockaway for our annual trip and my parents have been so present all week. It may be all the residual memories here, or my parents may have decided to join us on our journey. Regardless, my heart has been full all week and I am eternally grateful for the time here with our memories.

Mom, I made it to the bench by the church. Thank you for picking the most beautiful place on earth to be our special spot. You knew exactly what you were doing.