In loving memory...

Well, my productive day, took a drastic turn shortly after I posted my last blog. Though Wesley’s trip was an impromptu decision, it couldn’t have come at a better time. He arrived in Knoxville Wednesday night to find everything normal at his parents’ home. Within hours, that changed when his mom received a call from NHC that his grandfather, Paw Paw, had had a rough day.

Lynne and Shannon quickly ran to his bedside where Wesley, Jack and Joel joined them at different times throughout the night. Thursday afternoon, in a peaceful moment, surrounded by family, Paw Paw went home to meet his Lord. Almost three years to the day after Mommie died, Paw Paw joined her in what I am sure was a joyous reunion.

It was a sudden and quick death, but what a blessing that he was surrounded by family. Wesley ended up staying in Knoxville until Friday afternoon. He wanted to be there to help his mom for a while but also wanted to give her time to grieve.

Lynne has been the caregiver for her parents for five plus years and has done that role with grace and style. She took on all the stress of life in assisted living and made sure they were happy, comfortable, and had the best care possible. She truly is an example for all of how to respectfully honor your aging parents.

I am so glad that Paw Paw was able to meet his youngest great-grandchild when Philip (and Jackson) visited him in May.

When Wesley left Knoxville, Macey and Cole traveled with him. Happily, we rearranged our weekend plans and had a blast with Cole and Mace. The highlight of the weekend was visiting the Coke museum downtown. We all enjoyed the break from the heat and the endless supply of Cokes we downed at the end of the tour.

Though the visit came under sad circumstances, we loved having them here and look forward to doing it again soon!

Heading to the museum...and please, no comments about how my beautiful little niece is now taller than me!!

Oh, boy! The Coke museum!

Attempting to get the 3-D glasses on Jackson for the World Cup movie.

I just wonder what is he thinking?

All of us with the World Cup mascot

And with the Polar Bear

Wesley, Mace, and Cole enjoying the endless supply. Though we tried it all, we all agreed that the best is the Classic (plain or with Vanilla or Cherry!)

Give me some of that Coke!

Jackson LOVED trying the Coke. We only gave him a little and that was plenty! Philip wanted to join us too...maybe next year, we will actually put something in his cup!