A Final Goodbye to the Best Papa Anyone Could Have

As most of my readers know, the last several months of my life have been crazy.  January was no exception.  On the 25th of January, my Papa passed away at the age of 84.  He went very peacefully and was surrounded by his wife, kids and adult grandchildren.  I was privileged to be the oldest grandchild and was honestly his favorite...until my daughter was born anyway.  When Papa was in his final days, he faded from us and was not eating or drinking anything.  I carried my 12 yr old daughter up to see him, and Papa amazed us all by opening his eyes and looking right at her.  He then reached out for a big hug, called her by name, told her he loved her, and kissed her head.  He had not recognized anyone or spoken intelligibly for a day or so when we visited him, but the depth of their love for each other was shown when he came back to us long enough to soothe her aching 12 year old heart.  She was the last person Papa recognized or spoke to.  It was such a blessing for me and for my daughter.  She will never forget that Papa came back for her! 

BYE Pa!!  We love you and miss you, but we know you are in a better place, and we KNOW that we WILL see you again one day in Heaven!  As a child I said I had you in the palm of my hand.  Now, I carry you in my heart!