one week.

nearly one week ago as our family arrived home from minneapolis the call came that Gary went home to be with the Lord. my parents went over to be with kathy and the kids. they talked, prayed and cried. could it be just one week ago? since that time hundreds have flown into iowa city to attend the visitation and funeral. arrangements were made for the visitation and funeral. flowers were sent and already wilted. only a few weeks ago we thought Gary was on the up and up as he got his gall bladder removed. but, alas, the myeloma had returned in full force. so much has changed within one week. kathy's house is emptied of family. both her kids and her grandchild. it's quiet. it's nearly impossible to imagine he is actually gone. it seems like he'll drive up in any moment... he was just away on vacation. he'll walk in with that smile of his that lit up the room. but...alas. he will not.

he's in a much better place. but, it's sad for those left behind. but what joy does kathy possess. she's laughing, joking, smiling. i pray that her heart isn't just wilting on the inside...but her sadness remains healthy. oh, that our hope would be in what is to come. thank you for the blessings you have given us. but, may we love you, the creator, more than the blessings. hold us close when our hearts are breaking. thank you for saving us. may we live each day to the fullest... show us what this looks like.