Now that Al is gone, it is different getting used to being home with just Parker. I sure miss Al, but it brings me great joy to know that he is in a better place where he can be with his wife.
I remember the first time I met Al. I was rollerblading past his home. He asked, "Where are your elbow pads?" I stopped and chatted with him for a while and told him I would stop by again. I started visiting him regularly. I listened as he talked so lovingly of his wife and my heart ached for him. We would often go for walks around the neighborhood and I would try to stop by and make dinner with/for him on Sundays. He was always such a gentleman. I remember one evening when I was at his house I went to leave and it was dark outside. I only lived three houses down, but he insisted on walking me home. He hobbled along the cracked and bumpy sidewalk with his cane until we got close to my place, and then he watched me walk into my apartment complex. I went out the other side of the complex and watched
him walk home to make sure
he was safe. I cried as I watched how much effort it took for him to do this small act of kindness.
I think back now at how blessed my life has been just to know Al. He was a great example to me, my husband and our little boy, Parker. He did so much for us, but mostly he helped us to want to be just a little more kind, a little more gentle and to find humor in all we do. Even in his last few weeks, when he was confined to his bed, he always thanked me for being there and taking care of him. There is no way I would have had it any other way.
Late one evening as I got him ready for bed. I had given him his medicine and gotten him some fresh water. I was raising the head of his bed a little to get him comfortable for the night and I noticed a smile on his face.
I said, "Al it looks like there is a smile on your face. Why are you smiling?"
He replied, "Because I am looking at you."
He wasn't happy lying there in his bed all day, but he found ways to bring a smile to those around him. I sure will miss my friend.
On September 20th, our little boy turned 1 year old. I can't believe how fast time flies! Paul and I feel so blessed to have such a happy and healthy little boy. We had a birthday party on Saturday night. Grandma and Grandpa Jones were in town for the big event. Our group of family and friends gathered around to watch him dig into is birthday cupcake. At first, he was a little unsure of what to do. But once he got his fingers in it, he started smiling and squealing. After cake, he opened his presents and played with all of his new toys for the rest of the night. Here are some highlight photos from his birthday party.
