Remembering Grandpa

At my Dad's memorial we had cards available for those attending to write memories and thoughts of him on.  The plan is to put these all together in a book, and that we could each have a copy of the book as a special remembrance.  I wanted my kids to be included in that so tonight we helped the kids make up their cards.

It was fun to hear the special things they remember from their times with my dad.  I loved that they each wanted to write about something different even though most of them shared each of those experiences all together.  As their personalities are all so different, so are the experiences they remember and treasure the most.  I'll type up what I said at his memorial too so that it can be included in the book as well.

 The last couple of days have been harder, doing this was good for us as a family.  I do very well in "crisis mode" I generally do not panic, but instead just move forward doing what needs to be done.  Later I deal with the emotions.  Well, later has come.  I knew losing my dad was a big loss, but the enormity of this loss is hitting me now.  Knowing that I can't call him to tell him something I know he would want to hear.  Knowing he can't be there for me if I need him.  Knowing he can't come visit and teach the kids the many things I know he was looking forward to teaching them through all sorts of fun experiences he was hoping to have with them....  I'm sad and I can feel the weight of that sadness on me at all times even when I am enjoying a good time with my family or friends.

I'm so thankful for a wonderful husband,sweet children, dear friends and family, and a great great God to get me through this time!  I'm blessed by HIS peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).  I'm so thankful to know that HE has a plan for each of us (Jeremiah 29:11) and knows the number of our days (Job 14:5).  God is in control and I can rest in that knowledge, this did not take HIM by surprise, and nothing else will either.