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Wednesday, November 16, 2016

A Bittersweet Day Filled with Memories

My mother Cecilia Mary Steblay Kocman passed away fifteen years ago today. It is a bittersweet day for me as it is also the birthday of her late mother, Cecilia Mary Krall Steblay, my beautiful grandmother and dear best friend. This photo was from the wedding of my dad's older sister Angela "Gela" Kocman Medved. My aunt her husband Anton "Bear" Medved were godparents to all of my sibling and myself.
My grandmother, born on this date, was a strong woman of faith. It is what saved her and her phamily, after my grandfather's sudden death in a gold mining accident in Victor, CO. in February, 1927 along with her youngest son Anthony. She perservered through difficulties never taking any handouts but rather raising her children and caring for them by taking in boarders. She fed anyone who stopped at her doorstep and lovingly cared for all of us her entire life.
This photo, from the Mother Cabrini Shrine, is a favorite of my folks. They loved each other and cared for each other until my father's untimely passing April 5, 1985. This was taken in 1979 and I will always cherish this candid shot.
Some of us were grandchildren, others great grands. No matter, grandma loved each one of us. Another favorite candid shot.
Mom and I, Mother's Day 1979, what a beautiful life I have been given. Miss this woman so  much. She was always there to lend an ear. Seeing any kind of bullying or hatefulness, my mother would always say, with a friend like that, you will never need any enemies. she had so much wisdom. A kind heart, A strong willed woman. I miss her terribly and always will.

I love this photo of my grandma. an apron, a clothesline, a simple life. whenever I hang clothes on my clotheslines, I think of her. She was amazing. I know she is sharing in her best heavenly birthday today, Enjoying the company of all her children.
Mom I will honor you and know that you and dad both taught me that Love is the greatest thing. I miss you telling me to pray and pray harder. Enjoy your time in heaven because one day I will see you all there.

10 comments:

Sandee said...

Bittersweet, but wonderful memories. You made me think of my mother and grandmother with this post. Both my mother and grandmother were so very special to me too.

Have a blessed day my friend. Big hugs. ♥♥♥

Intense Guy said...

Hugs.

The loss of a much loved one - never seems to get any easier.

Mevely317 said...

Aw ... hugs!
Sarah Ban Breathnach calls these times, "Silent Anniversaries of the heart." I always like that phrase.

Summer said...

This is such a sweet and touching post ♥

Linda said...

Bittersweet, perhaps...and isn't it a joy to have our memories! Beautiful photos, Anne.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Love this post, Anne. You have so much information about your Mom and Grandmother ---and the big family. It's so special... Have you thought about writing a Family History type book --for the future generations in your family?

I know it is a sad day for you---but you do have so many great memories. Praise God for your wonderful family.

Hugs,
Betsy

NanaDiana said...

Wow! Your grandmother certainly had a lot on her plate after losing her husband AND her son in the mines. How awful! She was a strong woman...and so was your mom, I know. Love the phamily photos, Annie! God bless you-I know it is a hard day for you- xo Diana

Kay G. said...

I love the name "Cecelia". I chose that name for myself when I had to pick a name in Spanish class and I loved it when I found out later that St. Cecelia is the patron saint of music!
God bless. x

Edna B said...

I love all your photos. The one of you and your mom is beautiful. The photo showing the clotheslines brings back memories of days when I would always be hanging my clothes outdoors on lines. Nowadays, I use a dryer.

You have a wonderful day, hugs, Edna B.

Marilyn @ MountainTopSpice said...

Your mother will love in your special memories. I enjoyed your walk down memory lane, such precious memories you have, and I know you are continuing to pass on the love and strength to your family too. Many hugs to you today :)