3/07/2015

A woman who knew her own mind...


Elizabeth Margaret Knott -  October 1919- March 2015
 
A woman who knew her own mind…and she was invariably right.  She instinctively made important life decisions such as building, buying and selling at the most opportune moments. She started life with everything stacked against her succeeding and had to quit school during the depression.   But she was unstoppable.  She designed and built seven houses plus designed and built an eighteen-hole golf course as well.  She was strong willed, opinionated and she not only knew what was best for her, she knew what was best for everyone else as well.

Widowed in her sixties it was suggested that she would now have to spend more time with other women. Absolutely not! She promptly had a facelift and made a list of criteria for the next man… tall, played bridge, played golf, liked to fish, liked to travel, a good dancer and, most important, liked to cook as she never did.  And being a natural beauty she soon found one - the first of many companions to be replaced as they died off… Gradually as the pool of available men became fewer, her list grew shorter…. down to “liked to cook” and then “drive at night” was added.

I loved her and admired her but our mother-daughter relationship was difficult and complex. She had no intention leaving this world peacefully and didn’t… Someone may be taking her to an unfamiliar place but that won’t stop her from telling them how to get there. There will be NO service.  She herself arranged it years ago so she goes straight from the mortuary to the grave and no obit as she didn't want anyone knowing her business. 

22 comments:

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

I am sorry for your loss.

FlowerLady

Jani said...

Those of us who understand difficult mother/daughter relationships will keep you and yours in our thoughts as you say good-bye to a woman who knew her own mind. Bless her independent heart.

gocrazywithme said...

God bless you and your mom, Gerry. You neglected to mention that she left the world a very talented, much-admired daughter. Much love to you, dear friend.

Magpie's Mumblings said...

So very sorry. My mother was a strong and opinionated woman too, so I appreciate what you shared about yours. Bless her, and you.

Bren said...

You have my sympathy as you go through the grieving process (as I am also). May the Lord surround you with His healing hands.

Your post alone could serve as a beautiful eulogy to the life of your mom.

Marilyn said...

My thoughts are with you as you grieve for your mother.

Cathy said...

Dear Gerry, may you now enjoy some comfort and peace. I'm sorry for your loss, but glad your mother is on a new adventure! I suspect you'll have a bit more mental adjustment than you anticipated... Know that we all love and appreciate you! ((Hugs))

Lesley UK said...

She sounds like a formidable lady. My thoughts are with you. Blessings

Suztats said...

Gerry, wishing you lots of love and support as you and yours go through this difficult time as you grieve for your mother. Such a strong and independent soul! Sending you a big hug.

Momma Bear said...

Having my own "difficult" relationship I send you all the support in the world. And even permission (scandalous though it may seem) to feel relieved it's over. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Marlynne said...

Oh My! It was a hard relationship I'm sure! Bless You! May good thoughts and good times fill the rest of your days!

Carli The Quilter said...

Interesting and moving.

Lisa Boni said...

Gerry ~ having lost my Mom just 3 short years ago, and knowing all about difficult mother/daughter relationships, my heart goes out to you on the loss of your Mom. You mother sounds like a strong woman as mine was. The kind that leaves her mark on the world and the lives of all those whom they encounter. Praying that you find peace and strength in the days and weeks ahead. I know the loss of my Mom affected me far deeper than I anticipated. So many emotions to traverse. Sending you blessings and hugs.

Mosaic Magpie said...

Oh my, from the bottom of my heart I love this post. What a force to be reckoned with. Clothed in strength and dignity. Wow so many accomplishments her days must have been filled with ideas working in her mind. I loved the fact she had never been there, but could tell you the way. No obituary...with all those fantastic things she did, most would want them shouted from the rooftops. I would have to say she also created one fantastic, caring, talented daughter.
xo, my friend.
Deb

allie aller said...

That block is ABSOLUTELY stunning!!!

Lisa's comment was very wise. This is like a very major surgery in your life, and you will need time to heal up...but heal you will. There is no stopping you...and THAT is a wonderful legacy from your mom.

crazynewbie said...

Sorry for your loss Gerry. Your writings are so very touching, and a wonderful tribute to your mother.
Claire

Wendy said...

Sorry for your loss Gerry. Prayers being said for you.

Pamela Kellogg said...

I'm sorry for your loss Gerry. Thank you for sharing her spirit with us. My thoughts are with you. And this block is absolutely stunning!

lacysuzette said...

Belated condolences. Your block is a charming & loving tribute.

magicmoonmusings said...

I'm sorry to read of your mom's passing, my best to you.

OwlBe said...

I'm so sorry Gerry, words cannot express. Big warm hug to you!
Blessed Be,
~OwlBe~

Amy in LA said...

Oh, Gerry, I am sorry for your loss and honor your choice to give your Mother succor in her final journey, no matter her disposition towards you.

My Mother went the same way, as many very strong personalities do, I suspect. You tell her story beautifully and your love and admiration for her shines through.

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