Heading Home.

My Mom Nikki passed away on Sunday afternoon at 4:45 local time at a Hospice in Ladner, BC.

I am typing this as I wait for my flight home. Her funeral is set for Friday, July 23rd and I will be returning to Saskatchewan on Sunday the 25th.

When my Mom was diagnosed with Abdomenal cancer in late April, we were told to prepare for this type of thing. As time went by her condition got notably worse, and when I went home again in Mid-June it was to say goodbye.

I'm not bitter. I'm not angry. But I admit that at this point I feel a great deal of sadness and frustration.

The past three days have had their ups and downs. I've done my best to surround myself with friends, and keep myself busy, and for the most part it has helped. I can honestly say that the situation would be far more devastating if not for the constant support that I've received from friends, co-workers and of course Julie.

The calls, messages and hugs have all been greatly appreciated. I know I may not always show it, but I am so grateful and inspired by all of your support.

I anticipate that the next handul of weeks will be the toughest. I realize that there is much to celebrate, and I hope that my family can find the appropriate closure sooner than later.

My Mom was an amazing woman who left her finger-prints on a lot of people's lives. Her memory will never die, and I am so thankful for the 25 years that I had with her.

I will miss her laughter, her attitude, her warmth and her support. I am blessed to have had her for a Mother.

If you feel compelled, give your own Mom a hug or a phone-call. It's true that you never realize how much someone meant to you until they're gone. Don't take your family for granted,and make sure you love one another through thick and thin.

Thanks to all of you who have kept my family in your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to our future visits and interactions. As readers and friends, you all mean so much to me.

I'm about to board my flight. Let the celebration of life officially begin. I miss you Mom and I will forever hold you in my heart.