Newton, KS

1923-2011

I was at work Monday when I received the call that our grandmother had taken a turn for the worst.  As of last weekend, Lori and I knew her time was short, but we expected it to be measured in days; not hours.  

 

We quickly made arrangements to make the trip north.  It was not without the help of many people.  Eric's parents took the children, and my co-workers covered my scheduled work hours.  We packed the car, and Eric drove the six hours to Kansas.

She was in a coma when we arrived.  Our biggest contribution was to sit watch while our grandfather and my mom (her daughter-in-law) got some sleep.  Lori doted on our grandmother during that time. 

 

She passed away at 10AM this morning.  Her suffering is over.

A Week Ago Today

It was a week ago today that my dad died.  It is impossible to explain just how much that sucks.  I know some of you already know, and for those who don't, I hope you don't have to find out for a long time.

My dad's death was sudden and unexpected.  However, having also witnessed the slow, lingering, die-by-inches type of death, I can honestly say that for the person who must leave us, the quick death is better.  I am thankful he did not suffer long.  The sense of disbelief and surreality that the unexpected death leaves in its wake takes some time to fade, but after a week's time it is mostly gone.

My dad would want my mother and me to get back on life's horse and ride, so that is what we will try to do.  I will return to blogging on my topic theme--quilting--as soon as I can, and I'm already finding times I can concentrate enough to comment on my fellow bloggers blogs.  If I fail to comment on someone's blog, it's not because I'm not interested; I just don't always have my act together.  Please bear with me.