If I would have known the significance of this picture, I would have taken the time to make sure it was better lit, not blurry, and included both boys.
This picture was taken at 7:35pm Friday March 4, 2016. It was a typical Friday night. We were watching a replay of the Blue Jays game from earlier in the day (one of our favourite things to do as a family) and the boys wanted to make snow ice cream. This was probably our last chance to make this treat as the weather was expected to warm up in the coming days. So I quickly snapped this picture of M stirring up the icy snow. I had no idea what we were in for.
At 7:40pm we got a phone call from my husband's uncle, a phone call that would change our lives forever. A phone call that instantly made us feel like 'grown ups'. My father-in-law passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly. It was like being punched in the stomach and having the rug pulled out from under you all at the same time.
This past month has probably been the longest month of my life. Between the roller-coaster of personal emotions, being the support that my husband needs and helping my kids understand and process these emotions they're feeling. There are days that are generally difficult (mainly Fridays) and then there are days that are going good and then something small brings you right down. Grief is a very raw and unpredictable emotion.
Take the time to tell your loved ones how you feel. Hug them, take the extra time to not just talk to, but genuinely listen to what they have to say. You never know when it might be your last chance.
