Six Months

March 22, 2009 was the six month anniversary of Rocky's death.
As you can imagine, the week was a hard one. I was actually dreading the day, for 3 weeks prior. I don't know why, I guess because again, it was a solid reminder that he is gone.

My mom flew out to Ohio to spend the time with the grandkids and Brent & I, but I can't say for sure if it helped any. I was glad to be with her to let her cry and talk, though.
It was nice to be able to hold her and smell her perfume. I have found that small things like that are more meaningful to me than before.

Spring is here and our lives continue to bloom with new beginnings and a fresh look at things, as time passes. My uncle Mike has generously petitioned the city of Whittier to plant a tree in memory of Rocky on a new walking path they are designing. This is a very long process, so I will update you when I know more. We are also going to take a family trip to Colorado (Estes Park) in June to lay Rocky to rest. Rocky's sister Toni, nephew Anthony and niece Amanda and their families will be flying in from Pennsylvania. Brent & I with our boys, and my Mom, brothers Kevin & Nathan and my Uncle David & Aunt Irene and their family will be there to spread his ashes amongst the mountains - where he always said he "felt closest to God". It will be a week long excursion, so that we may enjoy the time in such a beautiful place.

May I ask that you continue to pray for our family in the year ahead. God has always been our great provider, and prayer helps to keep us strong. I never thought that the pain that I was feeling in my chest from heartbreak and loss would ever go away. But, now I can honestly say more recently that the gray cloud has moved on from it's permanent residence above our home. It does not follow me around any longer, either. Prayer changes things.

Thank you to all who have been so kind to our family. I know you yourselves have gone through difficult times in recent months. So, we appreciate the continued love and support you have shown. Your comments are not always easy to read, very touching and moving. But know, that each one has been read and although it is hard for my mom to read, I tell her what you have written. It brings her joy. ---May God's outpouring of grace be abundant to you and yours. - tina