Thanks, Again..

For everyone who reached out with condolences, left notes in the chat boards, sent texts, or simply held us in your thoughts, thank you. Truly.
This past week has been one for the books. When Bob’s father passed, nearly two weeks passed before the burial. This time, we had four days to pull everything together. That included clearing out his mom’s apartment at the nursing home, which added its own weight to the moment. It was also deeply moving to see how many people showed up to honor a 93-year-old woman.
Bob’s parents had a couple of bowling friends who were about thirty years younger than they were, which puts them right around my age. For as straight-laced as Bob’s parents were, these two are Harley-Davidson riders, full of warmth, humor, and heart. They’re considered family because that’s exactly how they show up.
After the burial, we all gathered for lunch, and they were there. I went over and told them this better not be the last time we see them. I think we all feel, collectively, that they’re part of the family now. That did it. Tears. More hugs. They assured us we weren’t getting rid of them and that they had no intention of disappearing.
Still, it marked the end of an era. It was the last time we saw Bob’s mom, and the first time the family gathered without the parents. There were a lot of tears. There was a lot of laughter too, more laughter than tears, actually. And through it all, you were there, offering support, kindness, and space while our world shifted just a little.
Thank you, so much.

P.S. In the middle of all this chaos, something quietly beautiful happened. Bob’s niece gave birth on Thursday night to a healthy baby boy. The news was intentionally held until after the luncheon so that his mom could have her moment, uninterrupted, and so we could hold the grief without distraction. Then, at the luncheon, Bob's sister stood and thanked everyone for coming and shared the good news of her new grandson. We were able to welcome the joy of a new life. Loss and beginning, side by side.