Thanks so much Sue for your open invitation for writers to guest post at your beautiful blog. I’m finally taking you up on it as it’s been awhile.
In light of your recent blog post, A Ghost of Myself and another by Stevie Turner, they prompted memories of some paranormal experiences I’ve encountered in my own life and thought I might share here.
It’s natural for us to be skeptical about what happens in the afterlife – Are we really dead? Is there life after death? Does the soul live on? Those are just a few questions lingering in our minds, particularly when we come close to death ourselves or encounter the loss of a loved one.
How many of us has given much thought about what lies on ‘the other side’? Do you believe in spirits visiting us from the beyond? When I was young I would wonder about these things and although I was curious, I remained skeptical until I began experiencing visits from some of my loved ones. It wasn’t that their spirits appeared to me as a vision, but rather, through my sense of smell, touch and intuitive messages I’d receive invoking an inner-knowing that comes over me.
I was very close with my father and after he passed away, now 27 years, I began sensing when he was around me. When he visits me there’s a distinct odor that surrounds me, the smell of Export A cigarettes intensely fills the area around me; the brand my father smoked ever since I can remember back.
One time in particular about 7 years ago, I was alone on my couch watching TV when the room suddenly began to smell like smoke. At first, I was concerned thinking something was on fire and I darted up from the couch to start sniffing around for fire and found that same smell follow me wherever I was checking, until I recognized the aroma that always surrounded my father and felt an inner calm.
I went back to my couch and my husband came downstairs from his man-cave to get a glass of water and I asked him eagerly if he could smell it. He looked at me puzzled, replying that I was imagining things. I responded by telling him not to worry, informing him it was just my dad visiting. The smell of that smoke engulfing me happens every so often, but there were times that I sensed his presence without the smoke.
It was my 35th birthday and I was looking forward to the party I was throwing myself in a few days. I thought I’d get my tan on by using the tanning bed in my condo building (yes, my bad, but those were the times) to get that golden glow going for the party. I got into the coffin-like structure, closed the lid and happily planned the events for the party in my head when suddenly a darkness washed over my thoughts and I found myself crying. I couldn’t shake the overwhelming sadness that came over me and didn’t understand it.
The next morning my brother called to tell me my paternal grandfather was dying, requesting me to get to the hospital as soon as I could. Sadly, I was too late.
One day, a few years before my dad died, before we even knew he had a heart condition, I was getting dressed to go to work, just putting the finishing touches on my makeup when an overwhelming anxiety came over me, planting itself in the pit of my stomach. Something in that moment just alerted me from within that something was wrong with my father. Before I stood up to call him, my phone rang. It was my sister calling to inform me that Dad was rushed to the hospital, he’d had a massive heart attack.
Feelings like I’ve encountered in these incidents occasionally happen to me as an inner alert when a loved one is in danger. I’m no longer skeptical about spirits existing.
My experience with spirit began when I was 15 years old. My maternal grandfather was living with us, and my beloved Aunty Sherry frequently stayed over at our house. One night, Aunty Sherry and I were up late watching TV and we decided to go into the kitchen to make a snack. I was still recovering from watching the movie Psycho and consequently, was afraid of my own shadow for years to come. I went to grab a drink from the fridge, and as I reached out my arm to pull the handle to open the fridge, I felt something grab my arm and then stroke it. There was nothing around me. I screamed and my aunt dropped what she was doing and came over to comfort me and ask what happened?
I told my aunt while feeling riddled with fear what I had experienced. She looked at me with such a calm in her face and said, “Don’t worry Deb, it’s just my mother letting you know she’s around.” The occurrence was apparently, not a big surprise to my aunt. Her mother, Dorothy, died when my own mother was just 14 years old.
The next morning my grandfather came down for breakfast, and as he took a sip of his tea he announced, “I saw my Dorothy last night. I was with her.”
Two days later, my grandfather was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer.
Coincidence? I think not. Throughout the years, I’ve had several other ‘odd’ encounters. And all those experiences affirm to me that loved ones do visit.
Have any of you had any encounters from the beyond?
©D.G. Kaye
D.G. Kaye is a Canadian nonfiction/memoir author. She was born, raised, and resides in Toronto, Canada. Kaye writes about her life experiences, matters of the heart and women’s issues.
When she isn’t writing books, you can find her on her blog at DGKayewriter.com where you’ll find an eclectic mix of life lessons, rants of injustice, writing tips, book reviews, and featured interviews of guest authors. She’s known to inject humor into her work whenever it’s warranted. D.G.’s motto is: Live Laugh Love . . . And Don’t Forget to Breathe!
Find and follow Debby
Blog/website Goodreads Amazon author page Facebook Wiseintro
Google+ Instagram Stumbleupon Pinterest LinkedIn.com
www.twitter.com/@pokercubster (Of course there’s a story to this name!)
Books by D. G. Kaye
Click the images or titles to find these books on Amazon
A Lifetime of guilt — What does it take to finally break free?
“Somehow I believed it was my obligation to try to do the right thing by her because she had given birth to me.”
Burdened with constant worry for her father and the guilt caused by her mother’s narcissism, D.G. Kaye had a short childhood. When she moved away from home at age eighteen, she began to grow into herself, overcoming her lack of guidance and her insecurities. Her life experiences became her teachers, and she learned from the mistakes and choices she made along the way, plagued by the guilt she carried for her mother.
Conflicted Hearts is a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and acceptance, an exploration of the quest for solace from emotional guilt.
Read Stevie Turner’s review of Conflicted Hearts here.
“I often found myself drifting from a state of normal in a sudden twist of bitchiness.”
From PMS to menopause to what the hell?
D.G. adds a touch of humor to a tale about a not-so-humorous time. While bidding farewell to her dearly departing estrogen, D.G. struggles to tame her raging hormones of fire, relentless dryness, flooding and droughts and other unflattering symptoms.
Join D.G. on her meno-journey to slay the dragons of menopause as she tries to hold on to her sanity, memory, hair, and so much more!
Read Tina Frisco’s review of Meno-What? here.
“I have been a great critic of myself for most of my life, and I was darned good at it, deflating my own ego without the help of anyone else.”
What do our shopping habits, high-heeled shoes, and big hair have to do with how we perceive ourselves? Do the slights we endured when we were young affect how we choose our relationships now?
D.G. takes us on a journey, unlocking the hurts of the past by identifying situations that hindered her own self-esteem. Her anecdotes and confessions demonstrate how the hurtful events in our lives linger and set the tone for how we value our own self-worth.
Words We Carry is a raw, personal accounting of how the author overcame the demons of low self-esteem with the determination to learn to love herself.
Read Judith Barrow’s review of Words We Carry here.
D.G. Kaye is back, and as she reflects on some of her more memorable vacations and travel snags, she finds herself constantly struggling to keep one step ahead of the ever-changing guidelines of the airlines–with her overweight luggage in tow. Her stories alert us to some of the pitfalls of being an obsessive shopper, especially when it comes time for D.G. to bring her treasures home, and remind us of the simpler days when traveling was a breeze.
In her quest to keep from tipping the scales, D.G. strives to devise new tricks to fit everything in her suitcases on each trip. Why is she consistently a target for Canada customs on her return journeys?
D.G.’s witty tales take us from airports, to travel escapades with best friends, to reflections on how time can change the places we hold dear in our hearts. Her memories will entertain and have you reminiscing about some of your own most treasured journeys–and perhaps make you contemplate revamping your packing strategies.
Read Christoph Fischer’s review of Have Bags Will Travel here.
“I hurt for her. She wasn’t much of a mother, but she was still my mother.”
Confronted with resurfacing feelings of guilt, D.G. Kaye is tormented by her decision to remain estranged from her dying emotionally abusive mother after resolving to banish her years ago, an event she has shared in her book Conflicted Hearts. In P.S. I Forgive You, Kaye takes us on a compelling heartfelt journey as she seeks to understand the roots of her mother’s narcissism, let go of past hurts, and find forgiveness for both her mother and herself.
After struggling for decades to break free, Kaye has severed the unhealthy ties that bound her to her dominating mother—but now Kaye battles new confliction, as the guilt she harbors over her decision only increases as the end of her mother’s life draws near. Kaye once again struggles with her conscience and her feelings of being obligated to return to a painful past she thought she left behind.
Read Deborah Jay’s review of P.S. I Forgive You here.
Reblogged this on The Militant Negro™.
LikeLiked by 5 people
Thank you. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome Ms. DG
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
🌹☺️🌻😎👌
LikeLiked by 2 people
Amazing stories, Debby. Those experiences must give you such a sense of being loved and watched over. I’ve never felt anything like that, but maybe I’m not paying attention??
LikeLiked by 5 people
They do now Amy, but when I was a young teen, they scared the heck out of me. I’m not sure how it works, maybe it’s being intune with energies. My siblings don’t have the same ability I do, so I consider it a gift. 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a fascinating read, Debby. I have never experienced anything like this myself but then, I have never lost anyone close to me. Thanks for hosting, Sue.
LikeLiked by 6 people
Thanks Robbie. I’m glad to hear you’ve never lost anyone close. I’ve lost too many and at least when they come to visit, it’s some sort of a comfort. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for the mention. Yes, I firmly believe that Spirit are all around us.
LikeLiked by 6 people
Pleasure Stevie. And glad to know you’re a believer. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes I believe that there is another spirit world waiting for us after we die. It’s not until you actually receive confirmation yourself from Spirit that you believe it exists. I’ve received such confirmation, so I’m lucky!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Wow! That is so fascinating!!!! You are blessed!
LikeLiked by 2 people
The whole subject is fascinating to me.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Me too! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Reblogged this on Die Erste Eslarner Zeitung – Aus und über Eslarn, sowie die bayerisch-tschechische Region!.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Michael 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Always with a great pleasure. From day to day i am understanding much more. Maybe i am becoming a poet some time. LOL
Have a nice evening. ,-) Michael
LikeLiked by 1 person
When you do, I will publish your poems and you will be my guest 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks in advance, Sue. But i think this is only possible after a rebirth. ,-)
LikeLike
They hapen every moment, Michael 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
If i am looking around our community here, its unbelievable. lol
LikeLike
Oh, I don’t know…. we make choices every millisecond and each one is a new beginning. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh, yes, thats true. My former writing was only a little joke addicted to some people of our community here. LoL
LikeLike
😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
is there life beyond this world, unquestionably, ask yourself, great post
LikeLiked by 4 people
Thank you. I have to believe there’s something after. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
there is, blessings
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on anita dawes and jaye marie.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thaks, Jaye x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for sharing Jaye 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I haven’t lost anyone that I know of, but sometimes I feel a great sadness that has nothing to do with me. So maybe someone visits when they need company?
LikeLiked by 3 people
It is very possible! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I think it’s wonderful that you have the ability to connect with “the other side” and that you shared. <
LikeLiked by 5 people
Thanks Annette. I wish I could connect more. I can’t really make anything happen, but spirits certainly show up in particular times of need so I do believe they are watching over us. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
It isn’t always possible to connect with a specific person or energy, that’s for sure.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
I am heading offline but will leave you with this haunting post from Debby Gies as a guest on Sue Vincent’s blog.. My mother in law would always ring us when she dreamt of her mother… it usually proceeded bad news. We have not bought one or two houses because despite appearing on the surface to be perfect they both had a very strange atmosphere.. How about you? Have you had experiences that you could not explain. Head over and read Debby’s post and let her know.
LikeLiked by 6 people
Thanks bunches Sal ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Fascinating post, Debby. I remember sitting with my mother in hospital a few days before she died. She kept swishing her hand in front of her eyes – you know the way you do when you know there’s a hair in front of your eyes but you can’t catch it? I asked what she was doing and she said she could see her mother but there was a thin curtain between them and she was trying to pull it away.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Wow, I do believe that. When I lost my last aunt, last year, I spent a lot of time with her while she was in palliative care. We had never talked about spirits and she never talked much about her childhood all the years she was my aunt. But sometimes when I visited her there we’d be in the middle of talking and she’d turn her head and start mumbling words I couldn’t understand. When I’d ask her to repeat what she said, she told me, it was okay, she was talking to her mother. It seems my grandmother was around many of us for many years. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Lovely post Debby. I have no idea what lies beyond but like you there have been times when I have felt something… like the universe telling me something was meant to be. So despite being a skeptic about a lot of things I never doubt there is some higher power looking out for us. As you know I never really speak about myself but I have one story. It’s the God’s honest truth.. believe it or not.
One particularly stinking wet night I was walking home (at the age of about 20) from a night out on the town because there was no way in hell you could get a cab at that hour. Anyway about a mile out of town, cold and wet, I suddenly thought to myself… you know what I’d sell my soul for a taxi… and low and behold round the corner comes an empty cab for me to flag down.
Faust got riches, youth and Marguerite. I didn’t even get a margarita! So despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, believe me when I say I’ll be damned if there is anything beyond!
LikeLiked by 6 people
Thanks so much Paul for the comment and for sharing a personal story. But I have to say, if I spoke out loud to the universe and said I’d sell my soul for a cab and out of the blue one showed up, I don’t think I’d get in it, LOL. Seriously, I wouldn’t want to be making deals with the devil! 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Too late for regrets now Debby, and it was a very wet cold nite! Oh well at least the other place will be warm and dry
LikeLiked by 2 people
Lollllllll Paul! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
NO way you will be damned, Paul. Spirit took your comment as a metaphor. I firmly believe that not one soul will be lost.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 2 people
So do I, Madelyn. All of us works in progress, learning as we are supposed to. xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
I expected that you would, Sue. There are simply too many spiritually-focused posts on your wonderful blog for me to believe otherwise.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have never understood how what is said to be created in the image of God could be condemned to an eternity of torment by that same Creator for being what it was made to be. xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Nor I, Sue. Makes NO sense what-so-ever! Tho’ I must say that the Book of Job continues to confound me as well.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 1 person
There are a lot of things that only make sense if read symboliclly. xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
If you can explain Job to me – especially symbolically, you will solve a mystery that has bugged me since I first heard the story as a kid — and that’s long ago now!
The best I have been able to come up with is an Abraham-Hicks explanation, and only from Job’s POV – he certainly did experience a lot of “contrast” – launch a lot of “rockets of desire” into his “vortex” and eventually came into alignment and “the law of attraction” pulled in manifestation on the physical plane.
The “bet” between God and Satan/good and evil – whatever – confounds.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 1 person
According to the book of Genesis God told Lot, he would spare Sodom if he could find 10 good men. I have you two, Debby, Sally, Shey and Robbie, just to mention a few….. Hey I’m quids in! Hurrah! Hug’s all round!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for counting me as a good guy, Paul, especially in the same breath as those particular individuals. Shey might have her hands full keeping the Dudes spared, however. 🙂
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ha ha ha ha!!!!!!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Our last house would certainly convince you we are not alone x
LikeLiked by 6 people
Ohhhh, tell us more!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Well Paul he was a soldier and quite set that it was his house and we were the intruders…. .
LikeLiked by 3 people
OMIGOD that is so cool!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am going to write it up for Sue xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂 xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
And that is SO COOOOL TOOO!
LikeLiked by 1 person
And I’ll be extending the invitation a little wider too 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well don’t forget Shey, I’m still a scaredy cat, lol. I’m ok with lost loved ones visiting, but a strange ghost would really send me off the edge,. LOL ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well….you would not have liked living in our house my darling xxxxxxxxxxx
LikeLiked by 4 people
No, I’m afraid I wouldn’t, you brave warrior woman you! 🙂 xxxxx
LikeLiked by 3 people
Weapon…. x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh you are so! 🙂 xxxxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
If you faancy coming over for a guest postng that story, Shey, you would be most welcome 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
I would love that Sue. It was quite a story. My email is ranelph12@aol.com and I only do guest slots if my host comes back to me xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
In your inbox, Shey 🙂 xxx
LikeLike
Sue, thank you so much for inviting me to post here today. It’s really a treat to be able to share these stories and interact with others who share their own experiences. ❤ P.S. sorry for the delay, I came by earlier before the post was live and worked on my new book all day before I got back. 🙂 xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is always a pleasure to have you over, Debby… you are welcome here any time ❤
No need to apologise! I am sure WIP are related to blaack holes where time is concecerned… 😉 xxx
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks so much Sue. Perfect term for lost in time – black hole, lol. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh yes, DJ. I typically don’t talk about this. Few people understand. Even my husband, who patiently listens. My first encounter is still crystal clear, even though it was 60 years ago. I looked out my bedroom window at night and saw an angel. She was flying, it was a side view. She was so beautiful and I was filled. When I was a child at summer camp, walking to my cabin in the evening, my father appeared. He died when I was five. It was a wonderful moment. Then, (and this is the biggie), I was in the car headed to the zoo in Norfolk, VA. I was in the backseat beside our granddaughter, probably two years old or younger. We stopped at a traffic light beside a cemetery. Immediately our granddaughter whipped her head over to the window and chatted up a storm in excitement. As soon as the light changed and we drove on, she was back to her old self. Now that was a moment!! Sometimes I feel a strong presence, often when I am going to bed. Lucky me. If you believe, they will come.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Children especially are open to other levels of reality and oce you have touched them, you do continue to get glimpses. I often wonder how much of the reality we see and accept without question is actually there for others.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Interesting thought, Sue. I have often heard that very young children see spirits, particularly in cemeteries. They are open!
LikeLike
They are… and I remember a few strange things of my own 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad to hear that, Sue.
LikeLike
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow Jennie! Thanks so much for sharing your encounters with spirit. How blessed to see an actual angel! And amazing that it seem your granddaughter now has ‘the gift’. What a privilege! They know when we need them. It’s an absolute gift to be able to sense their presence. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Indeed, Debby. Thanks so much… I haven’t told that story before. Best to you! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well I’m glad I got you to share Jennie. 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Really interesting visitations, Debby. Since our Spicey pasted last month, I have seen her in the house twice. Sugar knows she there too. Somehow, these souls seem to find a way to reach out to us and comfort us. I like that idea. ❤
LikeLiked by 4 people
Wow Colleen, how amazing is that? You must have felt so comforted knowing your little doggie is still around in spirit! Why am I not surprised you connect with spirit? Lol ❤
LikeLiked by 3 people
LOL… I’ve been like this for years. I know she’s here. Sugar does too. It’s really an emotional experience. When I saw the indentation on the one bed in the guest room, I knew it was her. I like to think that she went back into the realm with the elementals where she will be part of my life once again. ❤
LikeLiked by 4 people
What a beautiful thought. That is so comforting to know she’s still around you. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Debby. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
I know this sounds nuts, Colleen, but little Tink seems to know things I had to teach to former Shih Tzus. When I’ve had more than one at the same time, the older dogs taught the new ones, but It blew my mind when Tink seemed to know without example.
As a little guy and solo dog, he sat respectfully nearby as I ate at the table in my office, then trotted over to the sink in the kitchen to wait for his little taste – moments before I stood up to clear the table. How did he know the drill? (not the only example either!)
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 3 people
Ani always knows before I even think about moving… xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Tink too. They seem to read our minds — but that after-dinner thing wasn’t even a thought in my head at the time. He was SO little at the time.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ani knows before I even start to pack when I am going away…every time. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I haven’t traveled much since I’ve had Tink – and not at all unless he came too. So suitcases don’t mean the same for him. I have a shoe cabinet next to my bathroom door, however. He practically dances a jig when I head that way to slip on outdoor shoes, despite the fact that I head for the bathroom dozens of time each day.
xx,
mgh
LikeLike
As you know, I have the school weekends on which I can’t take Ani…. she has me pegged for those 🙂 xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Who takes care of Ani when you travel?
xx,
mgh
LikeLike
My step son, his little boy and two dogs…. she’s known them since they were all ‘pups’ together and loves going to stay xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lucky you to know you can go away without worrying — about Ani anyway. 🙂
xx,
mgh
LikeLike
My thoughts are they reincarnate (I’m Buddhist, so of course :D) and come back to us. I’ve had the same experience with a much loved cat and previous dog. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’ve had that thought often – especially with Tink. He seems to have characteristics and behaviors of *every* dog in my past — along with his own unique personality. Namaste.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 2 people
Namaste, my friend. ☺️
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hello Sue & Debby! Oh my, I got chills reading this. I’ve often sensed things, but never anything as concrete as a smell. Maybe I should pay closer attention. I like the thought of my grandmother and father communicating with me. Great post! Thank you Debby❣️
LikeLiked by 3 people
Hi Vashti. I don’t know what dictates who gets to connect and who doesn’t, but I’m sure that being open to receive is halfway there. And everyone who does connect with spirit does so in their own way through any of the senses. My danger alerts come through my a strange feeling in my stomach, before something happens. But I was blown away to find that scent informs when we a loved is around. With my dad it’s smoke, with my favorite aunt it’s a waft of her perfume that envelops me. I have so many other stories I could share of encounters but I didn’t want to turn the post into a book, lol. I’ve been to heaven once only. Maybe that’s a story I should tell. 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 3 people
You could always come back and share some more 😉 xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
OH wow Sue, thank you. I think I shall. I wasn’t aware that so many had interest in the afterlife. I will definitely come back and share my experience of visiting my father in heaven. I’ve never talked about that publicly, only my siblings know about that experience, but I’m happy to share. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Debby, I would be honoured if you would do so. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Fantastic. I’ll send something next week. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
You should definitely turn those experiences into a book! ❤ xx
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for that Vashti. I’m not sure if the world is interested in my stories from the beyond, there are so many books with those stories, but who knows, maybe one day. For now, I’m thrilled that Sue has invited me back to share a few more here. Stay tuned! ❤
LikeLiked by 4 people
I think some people can’t get enough of those stories. I’m happy to see you here. 😉 xx
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks again Vashti ❤ x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Reblogged this on firefly465.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you for sharing, Debby and thank you, Sue, for hosting. xxx When my mum was in the last stages of her cancer, my daughter and I cared for her all through it, I used to sit on the back step of the porch and smoke. One night, I smelled my dad’s aftershave and in front of me saw a shaky image of my dad. He was smiling at me and I just knew he had come to be with my mum when she passed over. My aunts arrived from Dublin the next day and my brother. My mum passed on the following day, I’m sure with much comfort when my dad met her. xxx
LikeLiked by 4 people
Wow Adele, I got goosebumps when reading this. Definitely you were gifted with your dad came to get your mum, much the same as my grandfather dreamed of his dead wife as though it wasn’t a dream but he was really with her. I know a few people (unfortunately) who were on their death beds when they exclaimed that they had just seen or talked to a loved one who had already passed. There’s too much not to believe. We are gifted by those visits. Thanks for sharing my friend. And thanks for reblogging. ❤
LikeLiked by 3 people
It’s my pleasure to share, Debby, the more people that can connect the better. Thank you for saying it was a gift, I truly believe it was. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Indeed! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Interesting post Debby..I am a firm believer in the afterlife…I never get smells I generally get warnings or feelings about what is going to happen…I was told a long time ago to get training so I knew how to tune in so to speak but I was too scared I suppose… A very ,very long time ago a friend of my mums daughter died and just few weeks later one of her nieces came over to play with me…we were outside in the garden and I felt a terrible chill and Gwyneth my little friend said Auntie Doreen is calling me…I can feel that chill now…Gwyneth had a terrible accident a few weeks later when her horse bolted, she didn’t survive…That scared me so much and since then I have had thoughts of accdents happening or events but none so terrible as that ….It scares me even now.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Wow Carol, again, I just got goosebumps reading this. And once again, the dead had come to visit Gwyneth, to comfort her before she was taken. I think that’s the part that scares me most, I enjoy receiving a message knowing a loved on is around, but I’m not ready for them to come calling for me, lol. But I must tell you, I’ve been to many psychics over the years and they’ve all picked up on my ability, and like you, I’ve been told many times to develop further the gift I’ve been given. And like you, I haven’t. 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yes…I think like you Debby…I wouldn’t want to take on that mantle…xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
I do like to believe that there is life after death, but I have to admit that I would be terrified if I actually felt the presence of a spirit, even if it was a family member that had passed. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
That’s how I felt the first time my grandmother squeezed my arm Judy, I was petrified. But as I grew and realized I was sensitive to spirit, it became comforting for me to feel their presence. But let me tell you, I am petrified of ghosts I don’t know, lol. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
I would think in some ways it is comforting to feel your grandmother’s presence as you know that she is ‘ok’ as such!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh yes, but as a first time encounter with spirit, not understanding what it was, it was quite frightening. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
I can imagine, Debby! I can’t imagine what I would do other than scream my head off!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Lol Judy! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have had encounters with spirits both in my parents house in Edinburgh and here in Cambridge too. I don’t know these spirits personally but they seem to want to make themselves known to me! I tend to be quite intuitive and psychic so perhaps that is why they seek me out.
LikeLiked by 4 people
That’s fascinating Marje. Indeed you have the gift. My best friend who lives in UK also has an uncanny ability to attract stranger’s spirits. She has been in many old century homes in England where she has encountered ‘stuck souls’. It’s fascinating really! 🙂 xx
LikeLiked by 3 people
Wonderful post, Debby. Your experiences don’t surprise me at all as you seem alert to the clues. I also sense unexpected smells and occasionally sounds and glimpses, but without your clarity. The nature of life is far more complex than we know, and these experiences are a good reminder to be open to the mystical possibilities that surround us. ❤
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks Diana. I do believe if we can sense extraordinary things we have the ability to develop them further, that’s if we wish to. Opening ourselves to them is the first step. ❤
LikeLiked by 3 people
I believe in the hereafter and that connections between us and our loved ones go beyond death. I have on occasion smelled roses when none were there. My mother prayed to St. Theresa, the Little Flower, who promised to shower the earth with roses and their scent. I feel close to my mother when this happens. I pray to St. Theresa and truly believe she listens and connects us somehow at these times. Love this post, Sue and Debby! Hugs & love to you both. ❤️ Xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much Janice for reading and for sharing the story about roses. Isn’t just an it just a comforting feeling we experience when we can sense that loved one around, especially when nobody else can except us! ❤ Hugs back my friend. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it is! Hugs xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great post, Deb, and thanks for hosting, Sue. I have had several “bizarre” experiences that I don’t have time right now to share, but I PROMISE they could not be explained away “logically,”, and three were also witnessed by another person with me at the time (physical changes in a house that everyone who had lived there swore was haunted). I was amazed, but never frightened.
I am big on “evidence based science” but I am by NO means a skeptic. “There are more things in heaven and Earth, Horatio, / Than are dreamt of in your philosophy” ~ Hamlet/Shakespeare (in those days, btw, philosophy WAS science.)
xx,
mgh
(Madelyn Griffith-Haynie – ADDandSoMuchMORE dot com)
ADD/EFD Coach Training Field founder; ADD Coaching co-founder
“It takes a village to transform a world!”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Even today, here are a good many things that science seems only to describe rather than explain. When you have time to share, perhaps you would come on over, Madelyn…? xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’d be honored, Sue – as long as you’ll do me the honor of allowing me to host you as well at some point.
Perhaps in late in Sept/ early to mid Oct. for anything “brain-based” from me- but I could share a few of my own “woo-woo” experiences comparatively quickly. One was so bizarre that even my neighbor who was visiting at the time could barely believe it – and she saw and heard it with her own eyes and ears.
BUT, as I said, I was never afraid of these spirits – we just had to come to an agreement about how we’d live together in the same house for as long as I was living there (and I’m not joking).
The folks who moved in after I moved out didn’t last long – and they actually asked me if I had experienced anything “strange” shortly before they moved out.
There were other strange “happenings” in that particular house that DID turn out to have an unusual but science-based/brain-based explanation – but not all. At least not in accordance with what science knows today.
The scariest thing about that house for me was my utility bill. OUCH! Practically no insulation, it turns out, and it practically broke my bank!
xx,
mgh
LikeLike
That would be wonderful, Madelyn. 🙂 Thank you…on both counts.
I’d be really interested to read more about that house. xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ll chip away at it as time permits and will send you something as soon as I am able – but please don’t hold your breath.
I’ve got posts queued through Sept. (but could change dates, of course). HOWEVER, something from you (or Ani) for Halloween would be wonderful!
But then, *anything* from you would be wonderful. Just a thought.
xx,
mgh
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ani and I will get our thinking caps on 😉 xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Looking forward to seeing what you come up with – so’s Tink.
xx,
mgh
LikeLike
Give me a few days 😉 xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Or weeks . . . or even months. ANY time!
xx,
mgh
LikeLike
😀 xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
HI M. Thanks for chiming in. And I sure hope you are going to take Sue up on her offer to join in and share a post of your intriguing experience. I know I’d like to hear about ir. 🙂 ❤ x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Deb. It’s on my ubiquitous “list” – lol.
xx, mgh
LikeLiked by 2 people
Lolllllll 🙂 xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
I believe we have a life after death, and yes, I have had numerous “events”. Maybe one of these days I’ll write them down and share. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
I would really love to have you over as a guest, Michelle… with these stories or any other you choose to share. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you. I will work on it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂 That would be lovely, Michelle 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow! It’s great to see Debby here, Sue. I have never experienced anything similar but can see how it would have a big impact. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It does, Olga… but I wonder how many of us do see things that ‘aren’t there’… but simply accept that they are.
LikeLike
Thanks for coming over to read here Olga. 🙂 xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful Sue, that you hosted this guest post from Debby..
Debby loved reading your encounters with the otherside here my friend.. Yes there is most certainly Life After Life.. 🙂 And its wonderful when our loved ones make the effort to make themselves known to us.. And we recognise their Signs..
Love and Blessings to you both.
Sue
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much Sue. You would know my friend. 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂 💜💜💜
LikeLiked by 2 people
I read your books about your family history–this post adds so much depth to those. I appreciate your openness.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much Jacqui. I appreciate you as a reader and a friend. 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 1 person
And, I hadn’t thought about the smell. I often sense my mother around me but next time, I’m going to pay attention to a scent.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fantastic Jacqui. We have to open awareness in order to receive. I hope she visits you again. 🙂
LikeLike
What a delight to read your post here! It is amazing Deb…you are so intuitive!! 🙂 We do get messages, which seem to be beyond our comprehension…probably the connection is with those loved ones we don’t want to part with.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I really believe so B. But I also think we have to be open to receive. 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Fascinating, Debby, and thanks for hosting Sue. There is more to life than we can possibly understand. That’s probably the only thing of which I’m sure. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Norah. That is a fact! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
It’s nice to be among the believers here, Sue. Thanks for sharing, Debby. Your story is amazing and doesn’t surprise me in the least. You’re likely an ’empath’ and open to spiritual messages and visits. I LOVE this topic. I must read the other posts, too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There seem to be a lot of us about, Lisa.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for stopping over here to read Lis. I am most certainly an empath. And I do think that has a lot to do with the ability to connect with spirit. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Truly fascinating, Debby. It’s remarkable what can transpire with an open mind and grateful heart. I feel my mom’s presence often, and I’m so grateful for this most treasured gift. Thank you both for sharing. XO
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much Natalie for dropping by and sharing a bit of your own gift. You should post more about it on Sue’s new offer to share our special encounters in a guest post. 🙂 xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
These are incredible occurrences, Debby. I am a very skeptical person, but I do believe in encounters like that by others. At least, I want to believe them. It would all make more sense, if my deceased loved ones would pay me a visit as well. I am very open to the experience, but so far, it hasn’t happened yet. I keep hoping and half expecting….
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t know how I missed this post, but something certainly brought me over here, Debby. You’ve had so many of these occurrences and I’m so glad you’ve shared them. Many people are sceptical of what lays outside the world we see and experience, but stories like yours tell us that there must be something else other than what we see. It’s almost as if we sometimes pass by a thin veil between our world and whatever awaits us when we pass away. I’ve written many thoughts and questions down about what to expect when death comes and what happens after. I’ll share them sometime.
LikeLike
You’d be welcome to add your voice to the discussion here, Hugh. x
LikeLike
Pingback: D.G. Kaye on growing self-esteem | ADD . . . and-so-much-more