Lila Jane

Sweet little Lila Jane entered our family today.  Number 12 grandchild, already.  I think the process will slow down a little now but what a ride.  Lila seems to be very patient.  Clara is so excited all she wants to do is hold her and kiss her.  Cydney seems  to be experiencing more pain with this delivery than the others.  Her Dr. is using different pain meds with this one than the Dr. she loved in Kansas did with the other three.  Grandpa started getting sick on the trip to Middleton so he is keeping himself away in order not to get anyone else sick but it is hard for him not to hold and snuggle her.  we feel very blessed that she is her and they are doing well. 

Saying Goodbye to Drew

Drew had planned every detail of his funeral with Diane during the months that he was so sick.  It was a very beautiful and appropriate funeral for him.  Saying goodbye is no easy task even with a knowledge that we will see him again.  I can admit for the first time that I had a different experience with this funeral.  I was relieved that he was no longer suffering and perhaps my understanding of death deepened as I watched and listened.  Drew like his Dad and Grandparents has completed his earthly life.  He had finished what he was sent to do.  That thought gave me great comfort although I didn't feel like I could share it with others today. Perhaps my own aging has given me a different perspective and a great desire to pass my test.  Grief is an interesting thing and we all grieve in different ways, watching and listening was an interesting experience. Not exactly knowing how to help others in the same situation is difficult.  Watching Kerry and worrying about his wrist and him over using it was constantly on my mind as well.

I will always be grateful that we were able to visit with Drew a few days before he passed away even though it was very apparent that he wouldn't be here much longer.  The place he was buried was so appropriate for him.  He loved the outdoors and the cemetery was up high in a valley with a beautiful view.  The day was cold but crystal clear.  As we waited for Diane to arrive at the cemetery a group of men from the family discovered two different groups of deer standing just up above watching and waiting to get to the beautiful flowers that were left at the grave site.  It just fit.

Saying Goodbye to Drew wasn't easy but I am grateful he is no longer suffering.



Drew

Almost a year ago we learned that Kerry's brother Drew had cancer.  It was quite advanced and they didn't give him much time.  It has been very difficult to watch him slowly fade away.  He was such a sweet man and always seemed so happy even though life hadn't been easy for him.  He passed away today at his home.  We had expected the phone call for some time but it is still not easy to hear the news.  My heart breaks for Kerry and his Mom and for Diane his wife.  He was only 62.  I am so grateful for the knowledge of the plan of salvation and the knowledge that we can be reunited with loved ones who have passed before us. 

Celebrating Rachel

Rachel and her family were in Maryland for the Holidays, kind of swan song for Cameron's family.  We missed celebrating her day with her so when most of us could get together we threw her a belated birthday party.  I love seeing my girls play with one another's children and also seeing the little ones play together more and more.  Avery and Makayla are so fun to watch as they discover one another.

Happy belated birthday Rachel.