Author Archives: Mary K. Smith

About Mary K. Smith

I was widowed in July 2009, when I lost my beloved husband, John, to melanoma. Cancer SUCKS. We have a young son who was just a year old when his father died. I live on a small farm in Maryland which is home to horses, cats, and a dog. I started this blog as a way for me to heal, a way to remember my husband, and eventually I'd like to share it with our son so he can see the love that his father had for him, the love that we had for each other, what a great person his father was, and how hard his father fought to live.

Conversations with a dear friend- “How were you able to get through John’s death without therapy or meds?”

A few days ago, I had a great conversation with a dear friend of mine.  The miles separate us, but we talk almost weekly on the phone and I consider her to be one of my closest friends. We talked … Continue reading

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Why is it that humans are so good at congratulating and suck at consoling?

Some promotions were announced today, which resulted in a number of “Congratulations!”  “Well deserved!” and “Couldn’t have happened to a better person!” that rang through the air.  Smiles were shared and happiness abounded.   That same day, I talked to someone … Continue reading

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Lesson in perspective

At work, we were part of a contest for a food bank.  Boxes and cans were arranged to make “art.”  For several days, I walked by the finished completion and could not for the life of me figure out what … Continue reading

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NIH and the Government Shutdown

Across my news feed in Facebook  this article shows-http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2013/10/03/patients-admitted-to-clinical-trials-losing-hope-as-gov-shutdown-continues/ 8-Year-Old Cancer Patient Among Those Affected By Government Shutdown October 3, 2013 5:35 PM View Comments Reporting Jessica Kartalija BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Every week, hundreds of patients, including children, are admitted to new … Continue reading

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Married to widowed

July 20, 2009, I went to bed married.  On July 21, 2009, I went to bed a widow.  Funny how the span of 24 hours can forever change a life.  For those of you with loving spouses give them a … Continue reading

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Ferris Wheel

Driving home, I spotted a ferris wheel at a carnival.  It was beautiful against the backdrop of the night sky… bright flashing lights drew attention to the ride. My mind wandered to my last ferris wheel ride… with John… at … Continue reading

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Morning Conversation

So, kiddo and I are having a morning conversation.  We’re talking about the things we like about his school.  It’s my turn and I say that I enjoy having free time and getting to hang out with a friend of … Continue reading

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A firefighter’s tribute

Whether you love it or hate it Facebook is often a great way to connect.  Today, a friend tagged me in a post, I clicked it to discover this. along with this text Honoring two friends who will now go … Continue reading

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Out of the Mouths of Babes- Friends

We’re watching a presentation on “Forgotten Fair Hill.”  The room is packed.  Before I signed up for the presentation, I had checked to make sure kiddo would be welcome and we were cleared, so I signed up.  If there is … Continue reading

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Grief Quote- Earl Grollman

Grief is not a disorder, a disease or a sign of weakness. It is an emotional, physical and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love. The only cure for grief is to grieve. – Earl Grollman I stumbled across … Continue reading

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