Welcome to TLeC! I appreciate your empathy and am so sorry about the loss of your mother as well. This weekend is especially difficult for me because my mom’s birthday was July 4th.:-(

I read one of the Lemony Snicket books with my son when he was little. Thanks for the reminder about how wonderful they are — really written for the kid in all of us! I’ll have to get some of the series from the library on my next trip.

My own mum died in February, so I understand the disoriented, out of wack feeling you have — especially for caregivers — after the death of a LO. It is a very strange feeling to be a caregiver for years — and then suddenly you are not.

And I would like to add my favorite orphans to your list: The Beaudelaire orphans in the Lemony Snicket A Series of Unfortunate Events. I’m listening to one of the books on tape, and loove it!

@ Lori Hoeck — I agree that being the elder generation in my family is enough “load!” Luckily, my in-laws are still both around, so I can delay wearing that mantle a little longer . . . Can you say denial? LOL If an anthem occurs to you in the future, please feel free to add it here.

@ Karen — Welcome to TLeC! You may an interesting distinction and I agree in my own life situation. However, depending on the age their parents’ pass away, some orphans may still know the warmth and love their parents gave them. Let’s hope so, any way.

@ Lance — Yup, Lori made a good observation about becoming the elder generation, and it is something I will have to come to terms with eventually. You are definitely an Annie-attitude person as well!

@ Loretta — Welcome to TLeC! I agree that our parents live on through our memories of them, what they taught us,and in how we live our lives. I like how you express an anthem “sings to our heart” — beautifully put! Thanks for being part of my birthday fun!

@ rummuser — I loved the movie Woodstock and do remember it occurring. I was in high school in NY at the time, about 2 or 3 hours away from where it was occurring, but my parents wouldn’t let me go. (Smart move on their part. LOL) Richie Havens has always been a favorite musician of mine and by reading your blog, I can see why you love that song by him. Thanks for sharing!

@ BIO — Welcome to TLeC! Yes, they are “simple but profound” lyrics. Glad I helped you re-discover a beautiful song. Music helps us get through life in many ways.

@ Sherri — Welcome to TLeC — I’m happy you found us. Thanks for your kind condolences. I just listened to “Hard Candy Christmas” again and I want to thank you for reminding me of that song — and the fun movie it was in! Did you know it’s on YouTube here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pttkAyWvAhU

The lyrics certainly can help a family caregiver find hope and inspiration. It’s a gentle and pretty melody with a powerful message. “Me, I’ll be just fine.” I’m going to add it to my iTunes library right now. Thanks!

I just stumbled upon your blog. First of all, I want to say that I’m very sorry for your recent loss. I’m much earlier in my caregiving journey, so it really helps to learn from people like you who have already been through the struggles and challenges that I will be facing.

I love the message of hope and optimism from Annie and the song “Tomorrow.” That is a great anthem. Another song that has always lifted my spirits when I was really down is “Hard Candy Christmas” by Dolly Parton. It reminds me that when times are at their darkest, there is always light at the end of the tunnel and that I’ll be just fine…

Sometimes I feel like an eagle in the sky, a long way from home etc.

Upon the passing of my mom, I truly felt like an orphan – a strange feeling. However, I’m happy to report the feeling passes, & you realize you are never alone. Our parents are always with us in spirit. We are connected with them in ways we don’t completely understand. I believe God allows them to help us pass through the mourning process & return to the hope & joy they instilled in us as children. How grateful I am for the love of parents & for the inspired rearing of us!

It was wonderful celebrating your birthday with you!!

It’s good to see you here again…

I think that song surely could be a caregiving anthem. And I don’t think I’d look at myself as an orphan – I’d go along Lori’s angle above – becoming the elder generation. Although…following Annie isn’t so bad – you gotta love her attitude!

Have a great rest of the day…YOUR day!

Happy Birthday!!

Thank you for coming to visit my blog at http://www.lipstickwisdom.com and for your comment.

I think there is a huge difference between an orphan and someone who has lost their parents — you still have their love and warmth in your heart and soul — an orphan doesn’t. Its something that can never go away even through death.

Big hugs to you on your birthday.

Karen
http://www.lipstickwisdom.com
http://www.twitter.com/lipstickwisdom

I don’t know about an anthem. I’d have to think about that.
Nah, I wouldn’t think of myself of as an orphan. I’d just be the elder generation in my family. That’s load enough!

Have a fun day and thanks for including your readers!