Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Our Protector

Today dad continued to "interact" with us in sweet, but slight ways. Although, we all agreed that his eyes do seem a little more vacant. Throughout the day he has at least one of us holding his hand because he seems to like the "anchor" that this provides, and possibly also just knowing that we are near. My mom's parents are here and are such a support as they hug, cook, clean and answer the doorbell whenever it rings. My mom's sister and my mom's close friend also camp out in dad's room with us and create an all-encompassing feel in the room. Dad peacefully rests and occasionally we can get him to make eye contact with us or blow a sweet little kiss. I felt a little extra teary today, but not in a completely sad way. Emotions are funny as they can be a whole mix of different things. There was some sadness for his physical condition, some tenderness towards who he is and has been, some joy for what his eternal future is bringing, some anxiousness about "the end"...all combined in one. We all agree that this is a very surreal time.

Mom reminded us today of one of dad's trademark characteristics as "protector". This would play out in a number of sweet, but humorous ways. For example, all three of us would find ourselves having to explain to any friend who happened to open the trunks to our cars, what exactly the suspicious looking large and bulky suitcase was doing back there. Dad had compiled a suitcase full of road safety items for each of our cars, packed them in suitcases and stuffed them in our trunks. These items included things like tire pumps, extra gloves, flares, light-reflectant road triangles, "Call 911" signs, and much, much more! He did not take our safety lightly.

He also bought knives for Lyndsay and I. He gave them to us "secretly" and told us not to worry mom about it. He showed us where to keep it in our cars and how we could whip it out quickly in case of an attack. It felt laughable storing these weapons in our cars, much less to imagine ever using them. But he was insistent and we appreciated it. Of course we both went to mom to tell on dad and how he had just equipped us with dangerous weapons. But later mom told us that he had come clean to her himself!

He loved us well.

7 comments:

  1. He loved everyone well.

    ~Courtney Gras

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  2. What an amazing father you have! I have enjoyed reading your post. You and your family our in our thoughts and prayers!

    Kelsey and Jon

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  3. Hugs and prayers for the whole family from the Fletchers and the Austins. (My parents are old fashioned and do not have a computer but I have shared your blog with them Lauren.) Let us know if you need anything.

    Julie Flethcer

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  4. What an amazing journey you all are on. You are in our prayers and thoughts.
    Beau

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  5. The impact Larry has had throughout his life is immeasureable. I know this personally as his cousin, and it continues to be affirmed through both your stories, Lauren, and the stories/thoughts submitted by friends and relatives. He always lived life to its fullest and he continues to do so even as he looks toward his eternal life. I cry for our earthly loss, but won't he have a great time in heaven! He'll arrive and surely his first word will be "HUGE"!!

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  6. What a wonderful and great man Larry is. It's a blessing that you have such good memories to share. We love you all and are praying for you and thinking of you.
    Melissa Erickson

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  7. Larry was a gift from God to all that knew him. He will be greatly missed, but we rejoice knowing we will see him again in heaven with our Heavenly Father. May God's peace be upon all of you! Please let us know if we can do anything.

    George Bocox

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