- Keep pictures of them up, so you can see them often.
- Talk about them and share stories about them.
- Go to places you went with them and do activities they liked to do.
- Volunteer or donate to a cause or charity they loved.
- Sing a song you sang together or enjoyed listening to.
- Dedicate things or events to them or name them in their honor.
- Try to be happy and grateful for the opportunities and events in your own life.
Plus probably a thousand other ways and variations of these that I didn't mention. The important part is doing whatever works and makes sense for you and for how you are feeling at the time. I have done a lot and have tried many with the kids.
This fall we planted memorial trees for Pamela. We had one planted in each of the two parks near our house that Pamela liked going to with the kids, Hanger Park (Tempe) and Pine Shadows Park (Chandler). Each city is different with their memorial tree program, but most at least offer some way to do it and let you pick the park. In Chandler they can put a bronze plaque with the tree. In Tempe they will let you participate in the planting. In Scottsdale they will provide you with a certificate. I know this last one because earlier in the year General Mills had a tree planted for Pamela at Scottsdale Ranch Park where they host the annual HopeKids picnic. General Mills also renamed the event "Pamela's Picnic for Hope," which was extremely thoughtful and another wonderful way to remember Pamela.
The kids enjoyed helping plant the tree, but probably had more fun just playing at the park afterwards :) Still, it was a nice activity and great way to remember Pamela. Every time we go to these parks we can look for Pamela's tree and the kids have another way to remember their mom.
 |
| Helping plant the tree at Hanger Park |
 |
| Tree with a bronze plaque at Pine Shadows |
