The great aunts...

Well, daddy, here it is. The photo of Aunts Inez, Dessie, Gladys and Mary that I was working on. I called you one night about a month before you died to make sure I had their names straight and to get some information on each of them. We talked about them for a long time that night and I told you why I wanted to know. You wanted to see the photo when I got through playing around with it.

You never got to see it. I thought we had more time so, I took my time. It looks better in person and I think you would like it. Of course, I'm sure you would find something to point out to me that wasn't done correctly. Constructive criticism that I used to hate but would give anything to be able to hear again.

You've seen them all now though haven't you. You are all together, strong and proud and peaceful and catching up. I wish you could tell my grandmother Walker how much I miss her and how often I think about her. How she used to hold my hand and play with my thumb. I could always look at your hands and it would be like looking at her's.

I think of all the people you have been able to see again. Some I knew and some I didn't. All the relatives and friends who went before you. That last time you saw Freddy, on Father's Day and you were full of questions for him. That is how I imagine you now. In heaven, catching up with all those that you haven't seen for decades. Things is quiet and still, pain free and comfortable for you now aren't they? I miss you and wish you were still here with us, still sitting in your recliner listening to your music or watching television. Since you can't be here I'm glad you are where you are. And, I know that is where you are daddy. Your hurt was too big, you were too full of compassion and empathy and concern for others to not end up in heaven.

I took Taylor to school the other day and went by your house afterwards. I sat outside with my mother while she ate her breakfast. I sat very still and I listened for you. The wind was blowing through the trees, cars were passing by and the grass was went from the rain. It was the kind of morning you would have enjoyed and we missed not having you there with us.

We love you and miss you, every day, all day long. All of us.