And to all a good night

Christmas 2013 is all but done.  It was a quiet day for the most part spent with Mom & Daddy.  It was bittersweet, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world.  Gracie, Thomas and Andrew were able to go over as well.  Lohryn, Jon, Ellie and Hannah went back to the mountains yesterday.  Kaitlyn had to work (welcome to being a nurse Katy!)  but has gone over tonight.  I am so thankful it was a good day for him. He was able to be up for a little while, and he loved on some oysters:)  He didn't have a whole lot to say, but I caught a few grins and winks when, in times past, he would have had something to say..probably alot to say.  Today, it was actually Daddy who gave the gifts. The gifts of strength, even thought he is so very weak, and faith that has never failed him, even when people and circumstances have.  I know that God must be very proud of his boy and will welcome him home with open arms.

Love you Daddy, Merry Christmas and thank you so much for being a gift to me and the kids this year!

Daddy, Christmas 2013

Mom, Daddy, Gracie, Thomas and Andrew

Of love and loss....

While I'm typing this in the glow of the Christmas Tree, my heart is heavy.  I'm trying really hard to feel "merry & bright". But not so far from my thoughts is the knowledge that as I prepare for the joy of the Christmas season, I am also preparing for what will be daddy's last Christmas on this earth. He is tired.  He's real tired.  He keeps hanging on, for us.He went to the doctor on Tuesday.  His weight is down about 15lbs in the last 6 weeks.  He's nothing but skin and bone, but he's still my daddy.  His laugh is weaker, his eyes are rheumy, his skin is thin. Simply put, he is weak, but he is strong.  He is ready.  That knowledge comforts me immeasurably and scares the heck out of me as well.  I want him to be free, to rest.  It's not unlike waiting for a baby to be born.....you know it's coming, you just don't know when.  The signs are there, and you know it won't be long.  The waiting is tough.  He's worked hard his whole life and he's made a difference in this life of mine. I pray him peace, and comfort and God Speed when he gets to meet his Jesus face to face.  Until then, I will just continue to love....