Comments on: DeDe the Younger Years

By: linda anderson

linda anderson — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 16:02:52 +0000

I have been waiting to get some early pictures of DeDe to John before writing anymore blogs, but assure you that I will be adding some soon. Not a day goes by (even very few minutes) that I don’t think of DeDe, David and the boys. This morning I just did not want to get out of bed and I just needed some hugs and cuddles. I put my arms around me and then I thought of each of them and I swear there was a calm that came over me and it has stayed with me. Yes I still cry much over the great loss, but I am finding tears of joy are coming more often now and as Catherine and I have been sorting through all of their “space” in this world, their home. Pictures, art work from the boys, lots of paperwork, even the food in the cabinets. Their home tells a story about their time shared here, the many projects, the play areas, their many movies they shared. The kitchen, where DeDe and the boys enjoyed baking brownies, cookies or Ryan’s crazy Nachos, etc. No matter where you walk you experience a special memory of the times and the different moments they shared. This weekend Claire, Arthur and I made Brownies which was such a delight for all of us and yes they were yummy. We sat in the hot tub and shared stories as they splashed and tried to swim. Yesterday, Catherine, Claire, Arthur and I took a little time off and went to the Boardwalk (where we were allowed to transfer the boys season passes to Claire and Arthur), and as they rode rides we talked about how much Luke and Ryan enjoyed the different rides. All these moments serve as reminders to us of our four no longer here, and yes sad but also so cherished and can be brought back in just a moment in our thoughts. They will always be loved and remembered by us all! And I am learning each day what grieving and healing are about. I am happy to know that the blogs are helping so many. They are special to me too!

By: Ron Goodman

Ron Goodman — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 04:51:45 +0000

Linda, I just wanted to add that I love these stories too! I hope you get a chance to add more about DeDe’s childhood years.

By: Sherry Balow

Sherry Balow — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:04:05 +0000

I’m happy to see you committing to paper Lin. Everyone will enjoy seeing DeDe, (and maybe later, thoughts on David, Luke and Ryan), through Mom and Grandma’s eyes. My heart will ache for you for a very long time, but I know through stories – repeated and then repeated again – their legacy continues. Keep writing. Love you.

By: Derek

Derek — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 21:55:12 +0000

I too really enjoy these stories. I have only known the family for a few years but these stories bring me closer to a family I love. Please continue to share with the community on this blog. We are here for you.

By: Lucia Orlando

Lucia Orlando — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:38:01 +0000

What a wonderful story Linda. She was so observant and I loved how she was so good at understanding what kids who couldn’t use their words yet were trying to tell us. After reading your story her empathy and attention to detail makes more sense – she knew exactly what it was like to be itching to communicate and not having the words ready. I recall my son having a “terrible two” fit at their house. I was flummoxed and exasperated, but DeDe had noticed what he’d been doing (while still chatting with me) and calmly spoke with him to reason out what he wanted – which turned out to be a toy he’d played with then forgotten about until Luke or Ryan picked it up. Just that little bit of discussion and attention from her calmed him down right away. There wasn’t much that escaped her attention! I love reading the stories of her as a girl, and before she met Dave. I’ve only heard a few from her and look forward to learning more.
Hugs,
Lucia