Memories in Dragonflies: Simple Lessons for Mindful Dying

Life—and death—may be hard; but joy is simple.
Lannette Cornell Bloom, a typical, overworked nurse, wife, and mom of two, was forty-three when her mother was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. She quit her job and dove headlong into the familiar role of caretaking. This choice—to slow down and be present for the hardest year of her life—resulted in an awakening. In unexpected moments, as childhood memories flooded into the present, Lannette glimpsed bits of magic that existed just beyond the pain. Without knowing it, she was experiencing a mindful dying process with her mother—and it was a journey that would change the way she lived the rest of her life.
A touching and soulful memoir that gracefully uncovers the beauty that is often lost within the dying process, Memories in Dragonflies is a beautiful portrait of what it means to be human and a gentle reminder to enjoy every moment, because even the simplest ones bring lasting joy.

Lannette Cornell Bloom is a registered nurse, speaker, and author. She is passionate about bringing simple joys to others. As an RN and health practitioner of more than thirty years, she has seen firsthand the need to care for others, both emotionally and physically. She brings into focus the fragility of life and the importance of enjoying the simple joys that slip through our fingers if we’re not paying attention. Bloom currently lives in La Jolla, CA with her husband and two pugs. Learn more at SimpleJoys.com.

ISBN: 9781631524691
Format: Paperback
Pages: 122
Publisher: She Writes Press
Published: August 21, 2018

2020 Eric Hoffer Award 1st Runner Up in Self-Help 2020 Eric Hoffer First Horizon Award Finalist 2019 Living Now Book Awards Gold Medal Winner in Caregiving 2019 Living Now Book Awards Silver Medal Winner in Grieving (Death/Dying) 2019 International Book Awards, Finalist, Spirituality: Inspirational “A lovely memory of life.” ?Nancy Fuller, Food Network Star and author of Farmhouse Rules “A relatable, tenderly observed account of the 'sacred joy' of tending to the dying.” ?Kirkus Reviews “Bloom has created an emotionally powerful story. The memories Bloom shares allow us to learn about the person her mother was and the person Bloom is; and we connect with both on a very human level. It should be required reading for nursing students.” ?Catherine M. Todero, PHD, RN, FAAN, Dean of Creighton University’s College of Nursing “In Memories in Dragonflies, Bloom takes us on a very personal and poignant journey. It is the author’s story of her mother and her experience helping her to die with dignity. Along the way her mother’s strength guides them both as they learn to comfort, love, and support each other every step along the way.” ?Iris Waichler, MSW, LCSW, author of Role Reversal: How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Aging Parents