XO comments: 99

My beautiful mother-in-law, Suzan, passed away unexpectedly last weekend. We're heartbroken and I hardly know what to say. She and Andy's dad were just here a few months ago for Amelia's birthday, and I'm so grateful for that. It was their first visit since Covid started and it was a wonderful visit. So many things remind me of her. So many toys and clothes and books and stuffed animals and dollies and cute, purple, soft, darling little sparkly things that she gave Amelia. She was a generous and doting grandmother, endlessly patient, endlessly loving, always up for a party, truly tireless when it came to everything and anything Amelia wanted, needed, or even mentioned. They FaceTimed every single weekday during the time that Amelia was doing school at home (Sue was a retired longtime special-education teacher), reading chapter books together, Charlotte's Web and Beezus and Ramona and Little House in the Big Woods, and I never stopped marveling at her incredible patience, how she would delight in just watching Amelia play Minecraft, or play with her stuff, or just barrel around the house. She was a true ray of sunshine, with a beautiful smile, and she loved her music, her books, her crochet, and especially her family. I remember when we went to Door County on the train to celebrate Andy's parents' 50th anniversary. There was one day we were there that I had wanted us all to take the ferry to Washington Island, where I had, coincidentally, vacationed for many years as a kid. The day was so hot. It was so hot. There was a lot of walking. The island was bigger and . . . emptier, and less interesting (and fun) . . . than I remembered, and as it had been my idea to go, I was especially anxious. It was a long day, with long, hot ferry rides, a lot of walking in the sun, and a squirelly four-year-old. :) And my parents-in-law were so cheerful, so game, so willing, so tireless although they were tired, never once complaining (unlike me), always in a good mood, doing every single thing it took and more to make sure that everyone was having a good time and enjoying themselves and the world. I mean, I have thought of that day, that blue, blue water, that big white boat, that sunshine and those pine trees, their happiness, so many times over the years. It was such a total example of their good nature, their cheer, and their enthusiasm in spite of any challenges, big or small. I see so much of this in Andy. So much of this. I love and will miss you, Sue. I will miss your enthusiasm and support for every random new thing I tried, and how you always thought I was so good at all of those things. I will miss your hugs and the smell of your perfume. I will miss getting texts with different ideas of things you wanted to buy for Mimi. I will miss how you loved us, and especially how you loved your Mouse. Rest in peace, dear one. Rest.

Comments

So sorry for your loss, please send Andy our best wishes. And you-I know it's hard to see your spouse and child grieve. It makes you extra broken-hearted.

I'm so sorry for the losses you've had, and I hope that with time you and Andy find peace in her memory.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I'm very glad that you had a visit as a family not too long ago. My husband and I have had so many losses these past several years. My Dad was diagnosed with colon cancer in April of 2020. Sadly he did not make it to the end of that year, and the losses just kept coming. I think I have always tried to love my friends and family well....but I try to be even more conscious of it now.

Oh, I am so sorry. Death is hard. And when it comes unexpectedly, carries an especial keenness. That shock — but wait, you were just *here*, I only looked away for a moment ...

I am sorry. Offering gentle prayers for peace.

I'm so sorry, dear Alicia, for your and your family's loss. Thinking of you during this tender time.

💔 she sounds like an amazing person.

Oh gosh. I am so so sorry. She sounds like an amazing grandmother and you will carry her in your hearts, always.

So sorry for your loss Alicia. Hang on tight to all those wonderful memories.

I am so sorry for the loss you are all experiencing. Good grandparents are such a gift to a child. Your description of your mother in law touched my heart...she's the kind of woman I hope to be, so even now, as I read your memories of her, her life is having such a beautiful effect on others. Praying for her soul and for your comfort. XO.

So much sympathy to you, Andy and Amelia. What a gift her life was to you three.

I’m so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute you’ve shared with us. I can feel your love and affection for this truly special person. Sending you peace and comfort.

So very sorry for your family’s loss. Thinking of you all and keeping you in my prayers. ❤️

My deepest condolences on the loss of your MIL, Andy's mom and Amelia's grandma. :( I hope you are comforted by all the wonderful times you had with her. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and with Andy's dad. We lost my mom last year and my dad has been my biggest concern. Losing a partner after so many years.:( Hugs to you all.

I am so very sorry.

Deepest, heartfelt condolences to you, Andy, Amelia and your entire family. Sending love.

I'm so sorry for this sad loss for your family. Sudden and unexpected loss seems to bring its own unique kind of pain. Your words here are a beautiful tribute. They make me wish I had known this wonderful woman. :) God bless you all.

What a kind and dear woman your MIL was from your memories. I, too, had a good MIL who died at age 91 last November, followed by my mom two weeks ago at age 100! Your family was blessed to have time together for Amelia's last birthday. Blessings and prayers for your whole family . . .

Dearest Alicia, Andy and Amelia,

I am so very sorry.

I'm so sorry. Your words are a beautiful tribute to her.

I'm so sorry for this great loss for your family.

Dear Alicia, Andy, and Amelia,

I am so sorry to learn of this great loss. Your tribute was beautiful and moving, and will inspire the rest of us to live in a similar spirit. XOXO

So sorry for your loss. You have great memories, especially your little one. How special that they were so connected, especially during the pandemic separation. Sorry it was a long time between those last visits.

Thank you for your beautiful words for someone who was interwoven into all of your lives. I'm sorry. Sending all of you wishes for ease and comfort.

What a beautiful tribute. So very sorry for the loss of such a special person in your lives.

So sorry for your loss. ❤️