"Remember, O Lord, your compassion and your loving kindness, for they have been from of old." Psalm 25:6
I claimed that verse for Pop / Bill in October, just two weeks before Avery was born. And, God has been so faithful, compassionate and kind. Though we had hoped for years, then months, then weeks, we had days. They were sweet and Pop did not suffer. Through the many tears and moments where taking a breath is difficult, we are all thanking God.
We have so much to be thankful for. Every one of us had special moments with Pop. Leona took him a huge fish balloon on Friday. We were on our way out of town on Friday, for the day, and I just had to go see Pop. Leona picked that balloon at the gift shop. It was her favorite and seemed to be a good replacement for our beach trip. He loved it as did every visitor that he had. Then, Aunt Caroline carried it out of the hospital this evening. He was strong enough to hold Avery for a bit on Saturday. There were laughs with Arthur. Then, Jamie and I spent Sunday evening with him. We sang to him and after some time Jamie left. Pop and I had some very special conversation. I was able to take care of him and just watch over him as he napped. My strawberry shortcake was the very last thing that he ate.
Jamie had some very special time. Pop knew that his time here was coming to an end and requested to see his four children numerous times. He praised them and blessed each one of them. We were planning on spending this week at Myrtle Beach together, so everyone has been together and off work. It is neat to look at that and thank God even for His timing.
I like to think that Pop is walking the heavenly shores right now with Jesus. It is a beautiful picture, but my heart still hurts.
On March 36, God gave me this verse for our extended family.
"Provide for those who grieve in Zion - to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of His splendor." Isaiah 61:3
That is now my prayer -
Thank you all for praying so faithfully for us. Your prayers have been heard.
With love,
Louise
