Grieving

In the process of choosing a title for today's post I considered something clever, something catchy, something touching ... but in the end I'm just calling it what is is ... grieving.  Sugar coating grief serves no useful purpose, in my opinion.  So, today as much as I would like it to be otherwise, my happy home is a bit sad.  

A much loved member of our family is no longer with us.

His sudden death at age 26 has left us in a state of shock and sadness.

~ Kevin & Michael ~



Born one month after my oldest son, they were cousins as well as little buddies.  When I think of him I remember his happy, smiling face and cute little blond hair.



~ Chris, Michael, Kevin & Jeremy ~



Four cousins that shared so many happy times together.

My sister and I each had two sons.

They are close in age, love sports and spent a lot of time together playing and getting into the mischief that little boys are known for.



When the college years hit, they didn't see each other as often.

But, when they did get together they'd pick up where they left off ... shooting hoops on the driveway.





My heart is so heavy for my dear sister and her family.

They have faced so much loss in the past few years.

I wonder how much more they can take.

Before the funeral I held my sister as she sobbed and said "why, why, why?"  To see her going through this kind of grief without being able to put her feelings into words is heartbreaking.



~Kevin & his grandparents ~

As the kids were growing up we always got together to ring in the new year.  It was tradition and made for many happy memories.

I smiled when I came across this picture of my parents and Kevin ringing in the new millenium.  I find comfort in knowing that they are once again surrounding Kev with their love.



May you rest peacefully dear Kevin.

You were a wonderful nephew and cousin who will be missed so much.  Our love is with you ... always.