When does ache soften?

I have nothing insightful to share today other than the fact that I miss my mom.  I was with my friend Sarah last night and we were painting.  The first thing I wanted to do was text a picture of what I had painted to my mother.
My mother wasn't a saint, neither am I; however, she loved her God deeply and with a steadfastness that I envy at times.
Tonight, as I sit here and miss her, I cry. The tears surprise me. They well up and over flow at the most unusual times.
The pain 25 days later is still razor sharp. The ache and the loneliness in my heart hasn't softened yet.  I doubt it ever will.

Today's gifts:

Sweet memories

Her smile

Painting

Sharing in a friend's accomplishment

The magic of lace