Goodbye to Dad A, More Snows, and Memories

Most of you know that we spent all of last week in Delaware, unfortunately, due to the passing of Dad A (Jeff's Dad, James or "Jim" Ahrens).  We rushed up on Monday but didn't quite make it in time and spent the week helping around the house and to attend the services on Thursday and Friday.  Such sad times.  He had fought a hard fight with superhero strength and lived to the fullest to the end, which he always wanted.  Between the heart issues, multiple myeloma, and kidney disease...the kidneys won and he is no longer forced to feel badly, be in pain, or slow down.  We like to think he is up in heaven trying to convince Jesus to let him do some projects around already perfect heaven.  Surely heaven could use some tile work, right?! As awful as the week was, it was truly a celebration of his life, network, accomplishments, hopes, teachings, and loves.  We were able to see many family members and friends which is always good despite the circumstances and it was wonderful recapping stories of his life and seeing pictures.  Truly he had a huge affect on all those around him.  It's hard to say goodbye, and it's also hard to explain this to children. Tyndell was a trooper (so was Silas...still sick for the first couple of days we were there) - very brave and sweet, blowing Grandad kisses until the end. 

On a lighter note, while hanging around the house, Tyndell was able to enjoy snow for the first time. She saw snow for the first time (this is a Florida baby remember?) in 2010 when we visited Palm Desert, CA and went to the top of the mountains. Back then she said, "I want more snows!" and we always remembered how excited it made her. Well this was no exception...she was excited to see this "dusting" and we were able to play for a little while in it one morning. It actually snowed three times while we were there! We also tried to rest and visit with cousins and walk around the house more just soaking in the details (including Jeff and Debbie's awesome child portraits)...just some bits + pieces below. 

Thanks to all for tons of prayers, hugs, and encouragement during this time...keep it coming...life just seems to keep throwing us for a loop lately.  Carpe Diem ya'll.