I haven't been there since...

Disclosure:  This post is a part of the Blog Dare I am participating in for 2014. Come join us at BloggyMoms!

One of my favorite cousins passed away from a massive heart attack on Monday.  He was only 53 years old.  When my mom called me with the news, I was shocked.  As she gave me all the details, I found myself crying.  It seems like only yesterday that we were kids and our families were at Carolina Beach.  We would go down and pretty much take over this small hotel.  My grandparents would get a room for my aunt and uncle (who were kids at the time).  Mom and Dad would get a room for my brother and me.  My cousin was there with his grandparents, parents, twin brother and little sisters.  His aunt, uncle and cousin also joined our crazy group.  We would spend the week of July 4th all together.  It was a great time.

As we grew up, we spent less time together.  Over the years, we competed in church league softball, played together in softball tournaments, and saw each other at various family events.  Although we were not together a lot, we kept in touch via facebook.  The last time I saw my cousin was at my Daddy's funeral.  Later today, I will go to visitation at the same funeral home where I said  my good-byes to my Papa, and my Daddy.  I haven't been there since they passed, and I hope it is a LONG time before I have to go again.

Rest in Peace Merle.  I love you cuz!