Crisp and clear the shimmering light of a fresh day stretches beyond the morning. A discernible note of something new yet familiar in the air. Though clouds hang, there is no array of color today – just pure light. Each morning flows into the next, ever connected, yet ever unique. Some we swim through, others we ride, and now fewer we float.
I contribute drops of saltwater to this mornings wave, as I am sure others will today as well. Even now, though the storm has passed, there are some waves of sunrise that swell to uncomfortable heights. Each comes and goes according to its own rhythm and tide. Onward we go, learning the ebbs and flows, adjusting to the sea, growing out of infancy in this life.
People say war ages souls, but I think it is death that does so. It is the ultimate loss of something we take for granted. A sharp reminder of our mortality.
It has been one year, today.
So much has happened, it feels like an eternity, yet in ways it feels like only a moment – a single wave.
I appreciate when you pull me through the wave of the day and when you encourage me to ride it instead. I am grateful for your steady guidance. Most of all I treasure our morning talks, though now you only listen.
I love you Dad.
The Upside of Down - an update on hope, love, and oncology 
I had a conversation with your Dad yesterday as I watered and inspected the growth on his Magnolia tree! It’s been a rough first year of it’s growth. But yesterday it appears to be gathering more strength as it reaches for the sky. It’s stems and leaves are becoming robust. It continues to stand straight and almost proud looking. Next year it should produce amazing scented flowers. I feel your Dad’s presence every time I sit on the bench and admire his Magnolia tree
Pappy and I love you Richard.
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The first year was the hardest . Little reminders constantly appear and leave imprints on our hearts. Slowly we learn to remember our loved ones in a different heartfelt way. Our tears from sorrow are turning into tears of special times and memories. Never were we ready to lose our loved one but somehow we find the inner strength to live each day and hold them in the deepest part of our hearts. I’m sure you’re dad is with you each day Richard. Urging you on, very proud of the man you are. Hang in there kiddo, it’s what your dad would want.
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My dear Richard, I think if you so often and think of what might have been. My heart still aches and always will. I loved your dad as my special son. There never will be another like him. Generous beyond belief. You are a reflection of him . I miss him so much. We Will go on and he will always be in our hearts . I love you
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