It is almost midnight on July 31st. 2016. I sit here and ponder the time. The 19 years that have gone by since the love of my life stepped into Eternity.  Nineteen years ago today, Howdy lay in a hospital bed in our family room. During the entire day we had visitors. Pastors from City Bible Church came by to sing to Howdy, to pray over Howdy and the family. We were surrounded by family, friends, pastors, co-workers of Howdy’s and nurses. Our sons and our best friends were there, Howdy’s boss and friend was there. So many people came to pay their last respects to Howdy before he left this earth.

If death is a beautiful thing then Howdy’s was beautiful. As he took his last breath, we sang, we cried, we hugged each other and cried some more. B.J. and Terry Johnston were with us and Terry asked if we might put our little dog, Brandy up in the bed with Howdy. Brandy sort of sniffed from his feet up to about his shoulder, she then sort of cleared her nostrils and wanted me to hold her. Again, the tears. By the way, Brandy did not howl as I thought she might.

Now it is 19 years later. Almost midnight and I’m tired. Church was so good this morning. The worship ministered to my heart. Death where is your sting. The Lord Jesus Christ reigns. I am comforted by       Isaiah 41:13. It says, “For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”  Yes, I am comforted. Jesus has “hand walked” me through some mighty hard times. The love of my life, my husband of 40 years slipped into Eternity.

I am now alone, no I am not alone, I have all my sons, their wives, grandchildren, their spouses and all of the great grandchildren. I have my friends here in my neighborhood, at church, my doctors and more. Oh, so many people. You see, the Lord made me the way I am. I’m out going or so it would seem. Inside me is this shy little girl. But…the Lord would have me to be bold as a Lion. I trust in the Lord. How can I not, He has brought me this far, He will not leave me now.

I am one very blessed woman. I still have so much to do. So many projects, so many more friends to make. So many more places to go, to see and to share the goodness of God.

It is almost midnight. Howdy died at 12:30 am on August 1, 1997.  So many memories. I will share more of those memories with you but tonight I’ll just say, “Good Night My Love, I’ll see you in my dreams.”

More later.