My heart goes out to you and your family.

It is so hard to lose any of our loved ones, and especially hard to lose a beloved mother.
I lost my mom five years ago, and I think of her every day, sometimes with tears, but mostly now with smiles. I find the holidays to be the hardest to get through, though. There are still certain Christmas carols that I can not listen to without crying.
What really caught me off guard after she passed away, was not knowing what little thing would cause me to think of her and make me so sad. I remember walking into a store and seeing a woman with a purse that looked just like one my mother had, and the tears came and I had to leave the store. Just seeing moms and daughters out shopping would be enough to cause a lump to form in my throat.
And, one of the hardest things was knowing I couldn't pick up my phone and call her whenever I wanted to. Okay, now I'm in tears!
4nana, I didn't mean to get off track here! I guess I just wanted to let you know that the loss of your mom will hit you at times you may not think it will. But also know that it does get easier with time, and eventually there will be less tears and more smiles and wonderful memories.
The photo you posted of your mom is beautiful! I know she was surrounded by a loving family! I am so sorry for the loss of your precious mother, and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
