One Year Ago

Family and close friends probably remember it was one year ago our family was experiencing the pain and heartache of losing one of our own. It all happened quickly and we were unprepared. One year ago, on April 9, my stepdad passed away. While there is still plenty of pain and heartache to go around the sadness has gotten a little bit easier. Of course this past year has provided plenty of distractions, Chelsea's leukemia has kept our minds focused on the current task: getting her well. Sunday marked the one year to the day we laid him to rest. Those who were there remember how soggy, wet and muddy it was. Most people brought a pair of old boots or tennies to slip on for the burial. It was quite a scene, but I can't imagine he would have wanted it any other way. Our family visited his grave on Sunday to plant a few peony's on the land near by. Mom had done a wonderful job getting the grass to grow nice and green and she's added a few things that really make it a beautiful place, and not the muddy mess we remember from one year ago. Here are a few pictures from our visit on Sunday. I'm hoping family from out of town think it looks at least a little different!