If you read my blog much, then you know that I have been waiting on words and praying about how to use this online space. Recently, I considered not writing at all until the new year.
Maybe that was what I needed. But I know myself and if I stop writing until January, then I probably won’t start again until April…if at all.
I have always felt that I was to use this space to encourage other Christians (mostly women, I think). I like to share about my faith journey and what the Lord is teaching me. But these posts are slow in coming these days.
Today, I want to share something totally different.
Last January, I went to Arkansas. I took Andy and we met my niece, Tarah from California and the three of us spent a few days with my parents. As usual, my plane was late getting into Little Rock, but I got my first photograph of night lights on an airport runway.
I thought it was kind of cool.
A married cousin came to visit with her family. Andy got to hold a newborn for the first time.
My parents have 7 kids. All of us are married with kids, although one of my brothers-in-law died 5 1/2 years ago. There were 18 grandchildren and of those 15 are living and 10 of the 15 are married. There are 25 great grandchildren. I am not including spouses of grandchildren or great-grandchildren!
Stories were told and memories were created.
My dad spent 30 years in the Army. My mother has moved something like 30 times!! They are 90 and 91 and both of their birthdays are in February.
I am blessed to still have them living and able to live alone!! I try to see them a few times a year. I went back in August and again in October. And we are planning to go visit between Christmas and New Years.
My dad fell 10 days ago and cracked his pelvis. He spent a few days in the hospital. The doctor said this type of break usually heals better with therapy. So they moved him to a rehab facility.
But my dad is 91…and I think he is tired. And giving up.
Praying for your dad. I can't believe I forgot to ask about him when we talked last week!!!
I love seeing the pictures of your sweet parents and your family. I'm glad you'll be able to go see them next month.
It's OK, Kathleen!
Oh Mary, I am so sorry to hear about your daddy. I will certainly be praying for him. I have not faced losing a parent yet. I can't even imagine. Praying for a blessed Thanksgiving for you and your family.
Thank you, Barbie.
I lost my dad in 2005 due to congestive heart failure. He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman and hunted until he was in his early 80's. I never thought of him dying until he was admitted into the hospital with heart complications. He went home and died in his own bed the way he wanted to. I was numbed with sorrow but inwardly I knew he was in a better place, free from the limitations of his heart condition. After 8 years, the memories remain making me grateful for his life. Time does heal the broken heart and bring thanksgiving to my heart and soul.
"Time does heal the broken heart and bring thanksgiving to my heart and soul." What a lovely thought, Kat, thank you for sharing it!
I have lost a parent just recently. My dad passed away in September on the 20th. I am still not fully taking it in but I do know that he is breathing now and not uncomfortable and I will see him some day once more. I was not prepared to hear the news that he was gone although we knew he was ill. My mom is managing to understand it all, she has dementia and parkinson's and doesn't fully grasp that he is gone.
So glad you have the comfort of seeing him again…
I lost my mother 20 yrs on the 29th of November, the exact day of her birthday. We were very close and losing her was like losing the earth beneath my feet. My comfort was that she had met the Lord and that she was in a better place were there is joy, and no sorrow. She had been through so much in her life. Time does heal and the Healer just embraces you with so much love and fills in all those gaps you feel after their loss. In 2005, on the 25th of September I lost my dad. Losing both my parents made me feel like I lost my roots. I felt like an orphan. The Lord though has helped me to truly understand that He is my Father and Mother and He cares for the "orphans". On special days like Christmas, Easter, birthdays, etc I tend to miss them alot and I usually go hide my self in a corner and shed tears. They are surely in a better place and what gives me joy and hope is that someday I will see them again. Hold onto the wonderful memories and just get rid of those hurtful ones. I will be praying for you daddy dear Mary and for your mommy too! I am so blessed to have visited your page via the Freshly Brewed Life… A blessed month of December to you and your loved ones!
Oh, Natasha, how sad to have lost both your parents. I'll be thinking of you this holiday season.
Hi Mary, I found your blog via Barbie's inspired blogger post. I live in Arkansas. What a blessing to be able to share such precious memories with your parents. Hope your dad has a speedy recovery.
Hi Wanda, now I have to know…WHERE in Arkansas do you live? My parents live in Conway.