Dear Danny

So many have lost loved ones in the recent weeks and months. I have been reminded this week of the many elders from our church that have since gone on to heaven. I remember their laughter and life and Their many accomplishments, the stories they handed down from one generation to the next. This has made me think so much of danny, not in his sick capacity but his zeal and zest for life capacity. If you have someone who has gone on think of them today with a smile and laughter!

Dear Danny

I remember you with sunshine and laughter
A twinkle in your eyes, a dimple in your chin
A mischievous heart melting smile

I remember your heart so big, so true, so full of love, so full of forgiveness
Always a kind word, always time for me.
I remember your hands so rough and calloused working in your shop
Creating, teaching, learning, always loving

I remember your arms and how strong they were always ready for an embrace
Ready to give, ready to receive. Whether deserving or undeserving, whether for comfort or love, always ready to give.

I remember you holding Jacobs hands his so tiny yours so big, so trusting.
I remember the countless hours of baseball you would throw to Tanner sitting on a bucket.
The endless hours of "read me a book daddy" to Emily.

I remember the smell of grass as you so eagerly rushed the first grass cut of the year.
Petting Gracie's ears all the while complaining of her slobbers. Rubbing bears chest at night before you would go to sleep. Throwing the cat out of the bathroom so he didn't hog the shower.

I remember peanut butter, had to be JIF! Boiled eggs, Kraft macaroni and cheese, homemade rolls, Kraft cheese by the slice, buttery toast, Mountain Dew, little Debbie's

I remember your compassion for your fellow man. Your willingness to do, to help,
All these things I remember so easily were so much a part of you, and I call on them everyday to make me a better person. I hear you in my head and my heart. Take time for Jacob, be a little lenient while other times "kick his butt". Help Tanner make decisions but don't do it for him, let him stand and make his own mistakes. Emily, help her be who she wants to be, be there for her. Love Zac for loving Emily-his better half. Remind them it takes 3 in their marriage and hope our example was enough here on earth.

I remember the love for your parents as they are growing older and I know you would take care of them. I do that with your love, just as you did for my parents.

I remember your feeble words the night before "I'm Scared" but also your strong words "I am so ready to go Home".

The memories of pain and anguish, sadness and despair are all fading and all I see is your happiness while kneeling in the presence of the King, the place you so longed to go for so long but didn't want to leave us. As you told me many times, it isn't goodbye, it is "I will see you all, my family, when you get here!" We are finding a happy place with your memories, your promises and most of all Gods Grace. Our days are full of life and thanks to you we can see it through your eyes and think this would make Dad happy.