Stepping Back

I have stepped back for a bit to spend time with my family. It has taken me awhile to be able to post something here. On July 7th my dad passed away. Even though we had all been expecting it, you are just never truly prepared. The last 2 1/2 years have been a mixture of tons of family time and lots of trips to the ER. My dad had a bad heart valve and due to his age was unable to have the surgery needed. The Dr told us it would slowly close. There were many times that we were called to come help. And of course we did. Toward the end he was home on hospice and had a caregiver that lived with them. She was a huge help to my mom & dad. When he was feeling good he was really feeling good and you would never know anything was wrong. He packed those years with lots of outings and family parties. He was determined to make it to my son's wedding and he did! Even though the wedding reception got a little out of order in the timing of events, I am convinced it was all in God's hands. Because dinner was served later my parents got to watch my son give a wonderful toast to his new wife. They got to listen to my other two boys toast their brother and new sister-in-law with unbelievably great speeches. And they got to watch the first dance and the mother/son dance. It was such a special time! He had to leave the festivities at that point but I am sure that God rearranged it all just for him! And that truly makes me smile.
My dad was 92 years old and he and my mom had just celebrated 68 years of marriage!! Amazing!!
Our family has always been close and so I have wonderful memories of my dad for which I am eternally grateful. I can honestly say I have no regrets!!
Fitting that the last family gathering was Father's Day.
I love you so much Dad and will miss you terribly but I take comfort in knowing you are in the loving arms of Jesus!