I long more for Heaven than I ever did before...

On Sunday, August 9, 10:13 PM...

My Dad went home to meet Jesus face-to-face after a lengthy illness. There was great relief in knowing he is now pain free, seeing his life clearly in ways only you and I can imagine. A man who hasn't stood on his own 2 feet in 15 months is walking streets of gold. Praise God for this time a celebration. A time to remember his life, his journey here on earth as a son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, etc...

A quiet man, with a generous heart. Always looking out for others. That is how I will remember him.


BUT, it still hurts. Bad. He will be deeply missed. Losing a loved one is never easy, never.
Losing a parent is in a class of it's own. It gives death a new meaning, gives life a new meaning, the aches reach the depths of our soul.


Dad fought the good fight. The battle wasn't easy .... and yet I never heard him complain. Instead he greeted all visitors with a smile. Nurses often remarked on how much they enjoyed his presence.

I am thankful beyond measure Dad met Samuel, once he even held him in his arms. The smiles the two exchanged as I held him over the bed will never, ever be forgotten. See, Dad was our # 1 fan when it came to adoption. He often reminded us we'd get a baby boy.. something Dad always knew deep in his heart.

As I write this, I can't help but think in less than 6 short months, I received the biggest blessing of my life, my son Samuel and felt the great loss of my life, the death of my Dad. It's hard to understand right now, but I know God makes no mistakes and I am thankful for these few short months.

Dad's in Heaven now.. a place I long for more than ever before. Jesus has overcome.

5 months ago tonight ...

5 months ago today we were preparing for our trip to pick up our baby from the adoption agency. Since then our life has been all about Samuel . . .our beautiful, healthy, happy, giddy adopted baby boy. He's quickly become the focus of our days .. and has made our lives complete.

Samuel is doing great. He's on target with everything, really. He sleeps like a Prince. . up to 11 hours a night (waking once for a quick bottle) and naps 2 - 3 times a day.

Although Samuel needed special "colic" formula for his first few months, we've recently reintroduced S imilac S ensitive and it's working out just fine! He also does very well with rice cereal and butternut squash! This week he start sweet potatoes. I can't wait til we start fresh fruits ... like avacados and bananas! :)

I am back to work. Samuel loves going to work with Mamma! He is so happy there ... and loves being in on the action. I see him frequently throughout the afternoon. Some days he stays with Grandma, too. They are such good buddies! And, I think it's good he spends some time with her.

So, all in all ... our little man is doing wonderfully! What an answer to our prayers!