So it was time to upgrade Dad's phone and he actually chose the iPhone 5 for some reason. I was pushing the 4 but he didn't go for it. He's only going to use the phone function, right?? Anyways when I was setting up the new phone, all of his voicemails ported to the new phone. And there was a message from Mom in May. She said "Hey, where are you? You didn't cook dinner so when are you coming home?" My Dad and I looked at one another and smiled. That was Mom!! I miss her..... 

So we pulled it off! We fed about 50+ seniors at the South Cove Plaza, 230 Stuart St, Boston. We had about 20 volunteers who cooked and baked their hearts out for this event. And we had the kids/teens serve the food. The seniors loved it and invited us back next year. They told us to bring more food! You have to love them old people. Thanks to everyone who participated!

Last Saturday, I picked up Dad to go to lunch with his brothers and family. He was waiting for me at the usual spot but he kept staring at the little smoking booth where my mom used to hang out. He started getting teary-eyed and that got me going. I hate seeing my Dad cry. It makes me feel so helpless and gets me to remembering. And I haven't been able to shake this feeling of overwhelming sadness since.

But it was nice to get together with everyone. There is no reason why we shouldn't see each other outside of the usual Thankgiving and twice on Chinese New Year's dinners. We are so fortunate that everyone is in the same state nevermind that 3 brothers live in Newton.  More importantly, EVERYONE gets along and are so supportive of one another. Uncle John mentioned maybe going to Por Por's on a Saturday night every couple of months or so. My Mom's passing made me realized how important family is. I honestly believe having and knowing my family was there throughout made the wake/funeral so much more bearable.

So how to shake this gloom and doom? The funny thing is I know my mom wouldn't want me to be this way. So I thought of hosting a Thanksgiving luncheon for the seniors I've been visiting for the last year or so. It's now in motion and Julie and I have recruited volunteers to cook and help out. It's giving me something to look forward to. It may sound like I'm doing a good thing but it's really more about doing it for me to feel better. Selfish, huh?