The road I travel this time of year…

It’s summer! This time of year brings so many thoughts and memories! As we get closer to that anniversary date, it’s hard to not think about that last summer in 2017. Although, right now, I can’t imagine what it would have been like for my son. He was a rebel of epic proportions. He definitely would not have quarantined well at all, let alone let someone tell him you can’t have fun on July4th!!! It was his favorite holiday!!

Lately, it seems every song on the radio is reminding me of my son and I can hear him singing!! Just heard “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus and I’ll be damned if it didn’t bring tears! Funny, the most out-of-the-blue things can just hit me like a brick!!

Last night, the trigger was the smell of the fire as I was burning the trash in our burn barrel. That kid loved a good bonfire! He loved any reason to get together with friends! My little social butterfly!!

This past weekend, my husband and I went up to LeClaire, Iowa. Quaint little tourist town. Buffalo Wild Bill Cody was from there and has a museum located in town. The main road is Cody Road and they have Cody Road Coffee House, Cody Road Whiskey, and Cody Road several others stores. Hard not to think about your child named Cody!

As I muddle through July, Bereaved Parents’ Month, I inch closer to the month of August, the anniversary month. I try not to dwell on all the things I missed out on, and want to be thankful for all the great things I did get to experience with my son. I know many did not get as much as I did. I am grateful, but that doesn’t mean I still can’t be a little upset and sad. I am both! I will celebrate my son this month, and next month, and the month after that!

For all his friends that choose to celebrate this July 4th despite the recommendations, lift one up to Cody and yell ‘here’s to you, Merica!!! He would love that!! And, as always, I cry because he is gone, but I smile because he was here!!

#happyindependenceday #landofliberty #weirdestyearever #thedashinthemiddle