my Aunt Dee Dee, Linda Blackstock, my mom’s only sister passed away last night. 

she had just turned 71 July 26th, the same birthday as my nephew Levi. birthday twins. my aunt loved sending cards – birthday, Christmas – she didn’t miss one that i can think of. it’s a lost art most people don’t appreciate anymore. i loved it. i tried in my own feeble attempt to join her and send one to her as well. i sent this year’s a week late with a little addendum since i heard she had just gone to the hospital. i added my well wishes for healing and a full recovery. we all expected that. we had no reason not to as far as we knew. i don’t know if she ever saw it. 

most of my childhood, Christmas’, Thanksgivings, Easter’s were shared with her and family. so much life shared. my heart is with them and holding them all – my uncle, my cousins, her grandson, my mom’s side of the family, all with love.

i’m grateful for her life, i’m grateful she isn’t suffering, i’m grateful for the love shared.

i’m grateful she got to make her move to Pahrump, Nevada five years ago to her new home which she so wanted and loved. i’m grateful we got to see her, post pandemic, this past winter and visit. 

i’m including some pictures, the last i have with her, from their send off to Pahrump. i gave her an enso calligraphy for her new home as a going away and housewarming gift. it reads: 

“Breathe, you are home.”

and now, i’m thinking that message is even more appropriate. 

i’m also including a quote from a Buddhist text, the Bardo Thodol. i find it so beautiful and comforting. it’s a prayer said for those who have passed. my Aunt had a deep belief in God from her Christian faith, but the description doesn’t feel too dissimilar to share. where else may we find Home?

holding all in Love.

~j

⭕️♥️🙏🏻