Where have I been?

Well, November is starting off with happy days and sad days. We all anticipated my niece’s wedding in Atlanta, Georgia. The planning had been going on for months. Mother-in-law was travelling with Dave and me. Ninty-year-old father-in-law was to have a chatty three days with cousins. And, I was getting to visit with a favorite cousin before the festivities began Saturday evening. Julie and Clay are starting a home, and hopefully, a family together. She’s all grown up and he’s the kinda guy you can really tease and dish it right back! At the last minute, mother-in-law decided not to make the trip…father-in-law was just not feeling well, thus the trip to the hospital. Before leaving for Atlanta, Dave and I made trip to Mendenhall to visit his dad. And, what a great visit! He’s Bulldog maroon to the bone so we talked football, weather, and the usual local news. Little did we know the turn of events. After a great visit with bride and groom’s family during the rehersal dinner, we retired to our room, anticipating the wedding. Dave talked to his mom on Saturday morning. You could tell in her voice something was not right. So, like bandits making a fast get-away, we left Atlanta, headed back to Mendenhall as fast as we could on Saturday. Much to our relief, Mr. Dyar was still alive, bearly, and Mrs. Dyar was exhausted. Cousins and friends stayed at the hospital until we arrived. We had another great visit with Mr. Dyar. The hospital staff and Dr. Chip Holbrook was incredible, to all of us. Even though, it’s a small local hospital, our every need was met as caregivers. Mrs. Dyar rested, laughed at my jokes, and enjoyed the leg massage. As friends and family gathered on Sunday afternoon, and several members from the Dyar’s church came by, Mr. Dyar left his earthly home.

Friends and family are important. As Thanksgiving approaches, be thankful for all the little things…like laughter, friendships that are rock solid, and caring professionals that help in weak moments.

Mr. Dyar, a veteran, was buried on Tuesday, Veterans Day.