Dear Journal,
I had the most fun I’ve had in a while the other night — Plant BINGO. I went with a friend and we had such a great time. I’ve always wanted to learn more about plants and have a green thumb, but I never really got into it before.
After my mom passed, I suddenly found myself surrounded by plants that had been sent in support of her service. At first, my only goal was simple: keep them alive. Now, almost six months later, I’m happy to report that they are all still alive!
My mom didn’t have a green thumb either, but I was bound and determined to figure it out. Somehow caring for these plants has become both a challenge and a peaceful routine for me. As I learn how to take care of them, I also find myself remembering my mom in small, quiet ways.
According to my plant app (which has become my little helper lately), the plants I received include:
Polka Dot Plant, Dwarf Umbrella Tree, Arrowhead Plant, Parlor Palm, Golden Pothos, Dumb Cane, Prayer Plant, Dragon Tree, and Peace Lily.
When my friend first told me about the Plant Bingo event, it was an immediate yes from me. I signed up right away. I was excited to get out with her, and even more excited to learn more about plants. The evening ended up being so much fun. We played eight rounds of bingo, browsed all the beautiful plants and accessories in the store, and enjoyed some mocktails while we played.
Getting out and enjoying a little fun was something I really needed. It gave me a chance to step away from the heavy feelings that grief can bring and sit in a space that felt fresh and light for a while.
And the best part? I won two of the eight bingo games! My mom always used to say that I was the luckiest person she knew. Moments like that make me smile and feel like maybe she’s still around me in little ways.
Grief is incredibly hard, but I’m slowly learning that it’s still possible to experience joy while grieving. I can hold onto the memories I have with my mom while also allowing myself to enjoy the present. I don’t know if this journey ever truly gets easier, but I do know that I can’t live only in what has already happened and what I cannot control. I can step outside, try new things, laugh with friends, and keep living life.
Because deep down, I know that’s exactly what my mom would want for me.
With Love,
The Shattered and Glowing Mama