You're 100% correct - grief is a winding road on a never ending journey. I can tell you - it does get a bit better. My mother has been gone 50 years - so I've had a bit of practice. But it never completely leaves you - that hollow bit. My mother wore White Shoulders perfume & every time I smell it - I know she's close by. I began wearing perfume after I became a mom because I wanted a 'scent' my kids (and now grandkids) could remember me by. Our memories are a gift. Eventually, they sustain us. But it takes time to close up the gaping wound left behind when we lose our moms. I don't believe there is ever a time in a life when it's better to lose your mother. It always hurts. And it hurts for a long time. <3 Take good care of Beth. You know that your mom would want you to. <3