Dear TC,

Your Aunt Aimee and Uncle Derrick drove up here today, Saturday, and the four of us set up tables and chairs in the fellowship hall at church. It looks great. Especially after some very sweet ladies did a little “tweaking”.  (smile)  I believe this is the first time the fellowship hall has been used.  The long narrow room was once two big rooms.  When Hurricane Helene flooded the basement, the remodel included removing that wall and opening up the space.  I, for one, look forward to many church functions in the “new” fellowship hall.

Dad and I went to lunch with Aimee and Derrick at Culver’s.  We were finishing up when the funeral home called to say you were ready for your “viewing”. — Remember that grief companion I spoke about?   It jumped me right there at Culver’s.  I don’t think grief gives a rip where I am, what I’m doing or who I’m with. Personally, I think grief stalks me and just looks for an opportunity to smack me, AGAIN!

Charlie came down and he went with your dad and me to the “viewing”.  I have to admit, you’re still my handsome son.  Your going-away outfit was your favorite Chevy shirt and black pants. Your ensemble wouldn’t be complete without that Black Rifle Coffee baseball cap.  You actually looked better than when I saw you last.  Without the pain to mar your features, you could relax and just be….you.  Even your beard looked good.  To be honest, I was always partial to your shaved head.  You look so good with a bald-on-purpose, head.  (grin)

The program for your Celebration of Life service is shaping up.  I’m planning to list the pall bearers.  My learning curve has been SUBSTANTIAL.  This is the first time I’ve planned out how to honor the man you were.  Everyone who knew you will feel your absence.

Did I tell you about the marker Dad ordered?  I think you’d like it.  If I can get Word Press to cooperate, I’ll upload a photo.

I pray  Jesus comes soon.  The thought of the days to come without you here are just too painful to contemplate.  I feel sorry for the people who never got to see your generous nature and your delightful sense of humor.

It gives me peace to dwell on the vision Father gave me the day we got the cancer diagnosis.  I remember the word “cancer” and I remember how neither of us even flinched.  —  That vision of you striding across Heaven is just so incredible!  I wish I could capture it on canvas.  My pen will have to suffice….one day….I’ll write it down.

For now, know that my love for you continues and your memory will live on as long as there is breath in my lungs.

Until we meet again.

→  Keep walking with Jesus.                                         

I love you,

Mom ♥

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