GOODBYE GAYLE

This is a hard post to write. We said goodbye to our last parent on April 21. Gayle Simon ended her earthly journey, but oh how happy she was as she started her eternal journey. Merrill and I feel certain we will see her in Heaven on day, walking those streets of gold. Who knows, my guess is that Gayle will be running and skipping her way around Heaven. Her earthly body caused her such pain and in many ways was nearly useless, but she made the best of it.

While she and I did not always see eye to eye, I have to tell you that she had more sheer guts and determination that anyone I have ever known. She sure did life "her way". With the power of only a few words, she had the power to get things she wanted out of people  who did not want to do whatever it is she wanted done. Now mind you, that is not always a good thing but it was her thing.

I would have laid money on her going first...I know, sad but true. She just had a host of medical issues. Not Gayle...my mama went first, so young at only 58. Merrill's dad went second, in 2001 just three months to the day after we lost Jason. My daddy came from a family that is known for long life, but he went on at 80. Then there was Gayle. She just keep on keeping on. She turned 82 in January. Sadly, do to many things, we were not able to get home to see her...then our life just got more crazy.

We took most of the children to California when she had a stroke. Again, sadly we just did not make it in time. Merrill's siblings were with her when she passed away. We got there about 45 minutes later. I am thankful that they waited for him. I am so thankful for the hour or so they spent in her room saying their goodbyes. I was not allowed to have that time with either of my parents. I think that is a much needed time in the healing process.

It is funny, we never think we are going to loose someone and then we do. We think in our human way that they will be here when we need them or when we want to have a chat with them...and then they are not. We know in our hearts that life will end, but in our head it is never going to be anytime soon.

I think we need to stop and say I love you just a bit more, reach out and touch more often, tell them you care and hand out those hugs. So that when the end does arrive you do not have regrets. Easier said than done. It all takes work...but in the end, the rewards will be great.

You are missed Gayle. Your touched lives in your own way. We are all a bit better for knowing you...each in our own way.

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