The small church in Montana where I was raised holds such deep gratitude for me.
Picturing the wooden pews and hymnbooks brought back a faint recollection of including images of it in an older blog entry.
I recently located that post, as some readers asked to see entries regarding my Mom (who is now in glory) and her struggle with dementia.
While it is somewhat lengthy, here is a segment of our shared history; I am so pleased I documented it before I forgot certain details!
Originally shared July 29, 2011
As a frequent visitor to Bildirimlerim, you know I traveled to Montana last week with just my carry-on and visited my family; I returned home last night after a truly wonderful experience on every level.
To keep my own memories safe, I decided to share some highlights online; perhaps it will become like a novel, so feel free to just look at the photos! {tee hee}
My trip began at the Cranbrook, BC airport, and I didn't realize my arrival coincided with the Cranbrook Air Show; as we neared the airport, the captain announced,
“You will see the airport on the right below you; however, the Snowbirds are currently performing for the Air Show, so we must circle until the ‘ok’ for landing is given.”
Next came 35 minutes of turbulence, unlike anything I've felt in my life; though not terrifying, the uncertainty made my stomach churn; I eventually searched the “seat-back pocket” for the airsick bag, finding it amusing that it was sealed within a plastic bag needing opening. Planning ahead for sickness is key!
Luckily, (phew!), I didn't need the bag; I felt such relief stepping off the plane to be met by two of my most cherished people—my sisters!!
(me, Susan, and Becky)
We subsequently spent two days together in our shared hometown, which naturally involved a substantial shopping excursion.
For context, the three of us sisters have 8 children in total; only one of those children is a girl, and none of the boys enjoy shopping, making this trip a HUGE affair!!
If shopping were an Olympic event testing stamina and resolve, Susan would undoubtedly be the champion! She can locate anything you seek—including accessories—and probably find it on sale too!
Here are a few helpful tips for future trips…
- I discovered the ideal lunch at Arby’s: a Jr. Roast Beef and side salad for just $2.68!!! Saving money is important to me…
- Local restaurants are open late, allowing you to stay until the mall closes at 9 p.m. and then enjoy a ham and cheese omelette for dinner at 10!!
- Beyond my carry-on items, I also packed 2 pairs of capris pants, 3 shirts, 2 shirts for my husband, a pair of sandals, 3 bags of Montana Coffee Trader coffee beans, and a lovely wooden vase. Be grateful for your carry-on wheels…
***
On Sunday, I visited the church I attended since birth; sitting there, observing the stained and varnished front boards (which I used to count during sermons), a strong emotion welled up from all the memories this place evoked…
~This is where I learned about Jesus, and Stella Cox taught me how to sing “Heavenly Sunshine” in Japanese.
~It was the location where I married the man I adore…
~It was also where I bid farewell to my Dad, and where the pews once held dear Saints now in glory.
A wonderful gathering of old acquaintances happened spontaneously during my visit, a true gift from providence.
***
Following church and enjoying a superb burger from the Wibaux Tastee Hut, we visited Mom, the central reason for this trip.
It is challenging to describe the transition of my lively, cheerful, and engaging Mom to having dementia; this journey has been quite sorrowful. This time, I resolved to approach it with no expectations and seek small joys.
Answering inquiries about my mom is difficult now; the talkative mom, the provider of advice and 'remember when' stories, is gone. Her verbal responses are fewer than in the Spring, and I question if she recognizes me, leading to many tears.
Yet, while looking through photo albums, she occasionally responded to 'Who is that?'; the real surprise was when she identified every member of her own family, naming them all except herself. For a brief moment, she spoke a clear, contextual sentence, stunning us—a glimpse of the 'Mom' I knew, a beautiful moment.
We soon understood that knitting was no longer in her routine. To ease her feelings, I suggested, “Perhaps Lorrie (my sister-in-law) can instruct me in knitting!” This attempt proved I likely won't become a knitter. Mom laughed at my efforts; that laugh was lovely.
Before departing one day, we arranged a small photo session, and she smiled as we held her close.
(Mom and my sister Becky)
The most unforgettable moment occurred during our final farewell; she walked with us to the home's front desk. A lady with a walker approached seeking assistance to walk to her room to avoid fear. Instantly, my mom turned and quietly began walking down the hall, and the woman followed her. Two women with cognitive decline, silently aiding one another.
Becky watched from behind as Mom escorted the lady to a room and gently helped her settle. They then shared a silent look.
“Mom,” Becky inquired, “Would you like to go to your room now while she rests?”
“Yes,” she responded, and then she walked to her room.
I found this profoundly touching; Mom always cared for others, and she still does. (However, we are still uncertain which room that lady occupied!:))
***
(View from my childhood bedroom window…“The Big Hill”)
I also spent time at the century-old farmhouse where I grew up; my sister-in-law has decorated it wonderfully, restoring its original charm, which I adore! I wanted to share photos and details, but time passed quickly. {Beyond the house, sharing coffee, pizza lunch, and conversations with my sister-in-law and brother felt truly 'home.' It warms my heart—thank you, Lorrie and Richard…}
On the return journey, I received this blessing from God…
A Montana sunset—absolutely magnificent.
The greatest aspect of this trip wasn't the scenery or local sights (though wonderful), but the people: family and friends, blessings beyond description.
One evening, looking at the Montana sky, we located the big dipper; I wonder how my family thousands of miles away views the same night sky I see.
This gives me solace, making the distance feel less vast.
***
Today feels a mix of sweet and poignant; I deeply miss my (childhood) family in Montana and wish the miles were shorter. Yet, I am also content to be back with my family here.
This morning included a delightful breakfast served right in bed
Feeling appreciated is truly wonderful :)
