Tuesday, August 4, 2009

In loving memory of Carolyn Howe Sansoucie


August is usually the month where my family celebrates the life of my mom. We've done a lot of things in remembrance of her. We have done the "Relay For Life" under the name of: "Carolyn's Kids", we've had family reunions in her memory, I have run numerous races in support of Fighting Breast Cancer with her name pinned to my back. My mother was an incredible woman. Her testimony of the gospel was unshakable. No matter what life threw at her, she would still find hope and healing through our Heavenly Father and through the atonement.

My mom has had a significant impact on my life. She was selfless and very talented. She could sew almost anything and made baby quilts for those in need. She loved music and loved to play the piano and organ and was just beginning to learn the violin before she passed away. If I could aspire to be even a fraction of the woman she was- I would be very grateful.

Her motto was "Always have a dream!" and it is hanging up in our house. Because of her, I have never once thought that I couldn't do something or dream something big! She will forever by my hero.

Her favorite holiday was Christmas and 13 years ago today we celebrated our last Christmas together (yes, it was in August). My parents knew that December was too far away to celebrate together. I will always treasure that night- we laughed, we cried and we were together as a family for the last few hours of this amazing woman's life.

5 comments:

Brittny said...

What a beautiful tribute to your mom. I obviously never knew her, but from what you wrote about her it sounds like you are very much like her. I'm sure she is very proud of the wonderful woman you have become. :)

Anne said...

Crystal, what a wonderful tribute. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to learn something about your mother. I would have liked to have known her.

The Lorenzen'z said...

I love the things you do to remember your mom. :o)

Clyde J Criddle said...

I enjoyed your tribute. I lost my mother when I was 10, too.

Leah said...

My friends who knew mom, always recount fond memories and can't forget all the times Mom spent WITH US, and one friend in particular, Amy, loves to sing Mom's praises and her mom does as well, saying "she was one of the greatest ladies she's ever known!" and I am proud to be her daughter and miss her greatly!! Love the picture you posted of yourself and her, she loved you very much, as she did all of us!!!