August 28th marks the two year anniversary of losing my sister. She's been on my mind all month. I still think of the birthdays I celebrated at Lawrence Welk with her. I still miss them. I still visit different places and think "she should be here with us.". Has it gotten easier? No. Is it a little more bearable? Yes. I have come to terms with the fact that my life will never be the same; there will always be an empty spot. I miss being able to tell her what is going on in my life. I'm retiring in two weeks; it was going to allow us to spend more time with each other....now she is not here. I think of her all the time. I miss her all the time. I always will. She was instrumental in my life...she mentored me, she supported me, she encouraged me, she took care of me, and, most importantly, she just loved me for me, unconditionally. Who could ask for more? I am so thankful for having her, but, as I've said before, it wasn't long enough. She left behind two wonderful kids, and five grandkids, one she never met. I love them with all my heart; they are a part of my sister. I know she would be so proud of "her" family. They are awesome. So, Sis, here are a few highlights of the past year, and the things I've missed talking about with you:
You have another grandson, Luke, he is too cute.
We spent Thanksgiving with Bobby and Megan, and Megan set a beautiful table and prepared a delicious dinner.
We lost our cousin, Jenny, to cancer. She is with you now.
I talk to Janet all the time. That probably would never have happened without you. We prop each other up now and then, and she keeps me posted on the rest of the family. You and her always were better at keeping up with everyone.
I spent eight days with Tricia, and we both kept saying how neat it would have been if you had been there with us. I guess that's why you should live life everyday and stop procrastinating!
Ryan is getting so big, he started first grade, and, much to your horror, he loves his school charge card, where he can charge his lunch. He caught on how as to use it very quickly, and it has caused some problems for him. He remembers you the most, I think. I always felt that you and he had a special bond.
Noah, our terminator, is now in preschool, and loving it. I think he got in trouble his first day of Tiny Tots for talking too much. P. S. I think Megan is loving both the kids being in school, and it gives her special time with Luke. They visited us this year and it was so much fun.
Megan and Tim and Bobby and Rachel are awesome parents. You would be proud.
Bobby is still performing, and loving it. He has had some traffic problems this year! He and Rachel are working hard on planting their church. They are a true asset to their community.
Caleb is starting kindergarten this year, where did the time go?
Micah is looking more like Bobby everyday. I wish I got to see more of Caleb and Micah.
They hosted a foreign exchange student this year, like mother, like son.
Travis is doing great in Chiropractic school. I am so proud of him. I know it is a struggle and hard on the whole family. Sometimes I worry about them; those conversations I was able to have with you when I was worried are probably the ones I miss the most.
Zach and Zoey are getting so big, and I cherish every minute I get to spend with them. I still go there twice a year. Trav and Traci are trying to decide where to settle when he finishes school. I hope they stay on the Southwest route, whatever they do!!!
I just celebrated my 60th birthday, and you were constantly on my mind because we never got to celebrate yours. Not to worry, I think I had three different celebrations, so I shall dedicate one to you!!!
Like I said, I am retiring this year, which makes losing you so much harder.
JR picked up another day of golf because I am retiring…….works for me!
JR and I plan on going to Turks and Caicos next year, as well as New York.
I just had my week in Phoenix with Cindy. Remember, you were supposed to go with us in 2010? We had lots of laughs, as usual.
So much happens within a year, much of which I can't remember. As you can see, we are all doing fine; but I still miss you every day and always will.
With love always,
Your sis
