Hold Your Loved Ones a Little Closer...

I had posted about the anniversary of losing my dad a couple of weeks ago. I didn't mean for the post to be sad, but I think it turned out that way. After I read what I had written I promised myself to make my blog a happy place. I really have a great life and have so much for which I am thankful. I want everyone to know that my life is truly blessed.

But today I am sad. This weekend my grandpa passed away. I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Richard. He was officially my step-grandpa. But he held a very special place in my heart. My kids and I spent the afternoon and evening with him and my grandma before he left our earthly world. I am so thankful that each of my kids hugged and kissed Grandpa Richard before we left. I am so thankful I kissed him on the cheek as I got ready to leave. Please make sure you tell your loved ones how special they are. I still can't believe that was the last time Richard will talk to me and play with my kids.

I just want everyone to know that I am so thankful that Richard was my grandpa. He was always willing to do anything to help me. He did everything from putting up shelves in my house to babysitting my kids. Richard loved to take care of my babies. If I ever needed or wanted to do something with my older kids, Richard was always willing to take care of the baby.

I remember last year my kids and I were joining Richard and my grandmother at the beach and he wanted to make sure we made it over easily and safely. So he drove from the beach to my home and then back to the beach.

This experience feels very unreal. I am sad. I will miss talking to Richard. I am sad that Jacob will not get to take any more drives in the mountains with Grandpa Richard. I am sad Ally and Logan will not get to climb up and cuddle with Grandpa Richard again. But I know Richard has moved on from our earth to an amazing place where his physical heart isn't going to hinder him anymore. His heart is strong now and I know that he is in heaven still loving my family just like he has for years.

Yeah when I get where I'm going, there'll be only happy tears. I will shed the sins and struggles, I have carried all these years. And I'll leave my heart wide open, I will love and have no fear. Yeah when I get where I'm going, don't cry for me down here. Chorus from When I Get Where I'm Going, sung by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton