Finally back to my blogging...

Been gone a long time I know! I had just barely gotten this blog up and going when, as my last post said, I had to begin helping my mom take care of my dad. Then on September 4 we had to admit him to one of our local hospice homes. He was there exactly 5 weeks when he died on October 9. It was a daily struggle for him and for us as well. I don't think there was a day that he didn't tell us he wanted to die. He questioned the drs. and nurses as to why he couldn't just die. His body was worn out and he was so miserable. I prayed every day we were there that God would just call him home. But things don't always go the way we want them to. God has His own timing in everything.

It has been a hard stuggle for my mom as she has dealt with being alone now. The holidays have been especially hard for her. I would say that they have been for me as well, but I would be lying. It was a great relief and blessing for me that he was finally at peace. That may sound strange to some, but when someone you love is that sick and has suffered for any length of time, I truthfully believe that deep inside you have to be happy for them if they were a Christian and prepared to meet God.

So as a tribute to my dad and others who are spending their first Christmas with their Heavenly Father , I want to share a poem that was shared with me. I don't know the author, but if anyone reading this does, if you'll let me know, I'll be glad to give credit to them.

My First Christmas In Heaven

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below

With tiny lights, like Heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear

For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear

But the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring,

For it is beyond description, to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart

But I am not so far away, We really aren't apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones, You know I hold you dear

And be glad I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above

I sent you each a memory of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold

It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do

For I can't count the blessings or love he has for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear

Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I pray you've all had a blessed Christmas and will have an even better new year!