My World Has Turned UpSiDe DoWn and InSidE oUt

She was my rock.
My cheerleader.
Steadfast and strong.

Now she's gone.
My best friend.
Her laughter was infectious.
Her smile would light up your face.

She left her footprints everywhere.
And she gave her love unconditionally.
She taught many through her teachings
of ABC's, 123's.

I miss her so much and just want to hold her hand one more time
and walk the path shaped into a heart again.
She stood tall and with such grace. 
She'll be an act that one can never follow,
for she was one-of-a-kind.
I'm blessed to call my Mother.

She left no debts to others.
She left ever lasting memories for our hearts.
I think my heart stopped beating when she took her last breath
because the pain is still there. 

The walls are whispering to me.
The nights are unsettled in thought.
Where do I go from here after so many years?

She whispers from above, "One step at a time, the door is wide open."
A tear falls down my cheek.
It's time to rest and start my journey anew.
Embrace the starting over, begin again.

I miss you Mom.
Marilyn J. Carleton
October 23, 1931~February 9, 2011