May 7th

On Saturday it was the year anniversary of my dad's passing and most of the day I felt as if I was living in a dream. So often I feel as if it has just happened but then I am reminded of all the firsts we have had without him and my heart sinks just a little. I was thinking of Bill the other day and remembering some things that I miss being able to do with him. My favorites are: Playing Basketball when I would come home from school, playing cards as a family, sitting on the deck reading, talking and laughing and watching Joseph play with Papa.

If tomorrow starts without me:

When tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not there to see if the sun should rise and find your eyes, all filled with tears for me. I wish so much if you wouldn't cry the way you did today, while thinking of the many things, we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you and each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me to. But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. And said my place was ready in Heaven far above, and that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away a tear fell from my eye, for all my life I'd always thought I didn't want to die.

I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do. It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while. I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized, that this could never be, for emptiness and memories would take the place of me. And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow. I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through Heaven's gates, I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiled at me, from his great golden throne, he said this is eternity and all I've promised you. Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.

I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last and since each day's the same way there's no longing for the past. You have been so faithful, so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. But you have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart. For every time you think of me I'm right here in your heart.

Most of the family after the services.
Joseph's blessing day

Mom and Bill in Mexico

Joseph and Papa having a serious discussion.

Family Fun!