The last three weeks have been a blur in many ways. As we experienced the passing of our Husband, Father and Friend, we were unprepared for the total emotion of it all. We have determined that no matter how much we think we are prepared, it becomes new and unplowed ground when those moments arrive.

The day of Rick's passing was quiet in many ways. It began with visits from his mother and siblings who were on their way to a family reunion, offering hugs and tender words of love, knowing it may be the last time they would speak to him during this mortal existence. A close cousin dropped by on his way as well, Rick wa.s able to say "questionnaire"...wondering what the content of that was for the reunion...he knew of the spirited discussion that these questions always brought. Ron left a copy that we later read.

The day then became more quiet, Cam and I spent time with Rick that morning. Rick was a little restless and really wanted to stand up, I thought that maybe he was so tired of the bed that he wanted some relief from laying down. Now, I look back and wonder if he wanted to stand in reverence to those who would greet him as he passed to the other side of the veil.

When I came down that morning, although he was having difficulty putting sentences together, he told me, "Your face is pretty today." Probably the last compliment I'l have of that nature from my best cheerleader.

We read, we listened to beautiful music and he was quiet and contemplative. He seemed to be between here and there, sliding back and forth on the notes of the music he loved. I talked, he listened.

His physical body was giving up, when it became clear, I'll not forget the despair in Cam's face, utter helplessness. Then, as we called Katie home from work, again despair, saddness, pure anguish. As we called Rick and Sarah and Jakie, there was recognition, and peace in Rick's countenance, and pure love as he turned to Jakie's voice for the last time.

Tender mercies abound in our lives. Boyd arrived at the exact time when we would need his broad shoulders to help support us. Our Bishop was near and able to respond to us quickly. We had just what we needed when we needed it. Rick was calm and seemed to be out of pain...a relief to all of us...those final moments of passing were seemingly smooth. Although we were very sad, there was comfort in knowing where he was and who he was with to love and support him and that he was out of pain and discomfort that had been a part of his mortal life for months and in reality, years.

How grateful we are as a family to know that there is a place that continues beyond this life, a place of love, peace and reward for a faithful life, well-lived. If not for that sure knowledge, we would not have been able to endure the pain of loss. With the Lord's help and His mercies, we will.