Miss you...

Jimmy - You have truly been an inspiration to many of us. I know that this blog typically is about Abigail, but what better way to share how truly thankful I am for such a wonderful man in my life. Jim has been in my life for 27 years, 21 as my Step Dad. He helped raise me, make sure that I did not goof off, and helped me see that there are more important things in life then just getting the job done. He showed me how important family is and how much I cherish that! My Dad ( Jim ) loved us so much and took the time to encourage us, to care for us and to LOVE us. I know that he loved me and especially loved my Mom, but my heart aches because he is no longer here with us.

There are so many stories of how much fun we had or how much trouble we got in. Yes I know that I made him mad on more than one occassion, but the most memorable is when I told him that he was not my dad and that he could not tell me what to do. Well I then locked myself in my room and proceeded to hide and being a cheap door, he broke right through it and scared me to death. I know that it was not funny then, but looking back it makes me smile. Funny to me now is that at the time I really meant that he was not my dad and that he could not tell me what to do, but now I know the truth, you do not have to be the biological father to be a dad and I am very fortunate to have two. My real dad is great and I love him lots, but right now I miss my dad!

For those who do not know, Jim fought a really tough case of esophagus cancer and lost his battle on October 20th after just 8 weeks of knowing that he was even sick. I was able to fly in and spend a half hour with him before he passed away. I thank God for that half hour and know that he helped Jimmy stay alive for me to even have that time. Thank you Jesus!

I love you and miss you very much Jimmy!!!