Saying Goodbye to Alex

It was a sunny, warm summer morning in Waynesboro, VA when Alex's family and friends gathered to say goodbye. The funeral mass was beautiful. We picked up Betty from the hospital so she could attend the service. Afterward, the family gathered at Betty's home for lunch, compliments of Jim's sister-in-law. Betty loved being back in her house, even if it were only for a few hours. When we drove her back to the hospital, she did not want to get out of the car to return to her room.

Before family members began leaving to go home, they posed for some pictures. I'm still working on the big picture of everyone, but this picture of Betty and her four kids is ready to post, although I do want to photoshop out the pictures on the wall behind them. I wish I had noticed that before we took all the pictures! Oh well, live and learn, I suppose.

In Memory Of My Dad

For the first time in my life, I'll celebrate Father's Day without my Dad. The man who taught me how to play basketball, camp and ride a bike passed away on July 21st at the age of 83. We say goodbye on Monday.

It has been said that the loss of a parent is one of life's most traumatic events. I now know the devastating truth of that statement. I've been told that, in time, the hurt will fade, only to be replaced by positive memories. Already, I can feel that happening as I look back at past pictures in remembrance.

I love you, Dad.

Sad News

Regina's Dad, Alex died today at about 7:10pm, EST. He was 83 years old and was in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease. He was taken care of at home by Regina's Mom, Betty, until her stroke about six weeks ago. At that time, he was moved into a nursing home where he remained until his death today.

The doctor at the nursing home had alerted Edy (Regina's sister) of his condition early enough that she was able to arrange for a priest to give Alex the Anointing of the Sick and a prayer for the dying, before he died. Edy said his breathing was labored and his eyes were empty. Edy and her daughters Paige and Katelyn laid their hands on Alex and prayed for him as the Father annointed him with oils. A few hours after that, he was gone. He will be missed.

Alex Chepalis - Pictured here 3 years ago
when he and Betty visited us in Seattle.

Happy Fourth of July!

Getting Excited About Vacation

It is hard to believe that it is now July. We had planned a vacation to Alaska (cruise) several months ago and we leave next Saturday! This will be our third cruise to Alaska but we really love it up there and cruising is a fun way to relax, see the sights and have a great family vacation. Katie, our 5 year old, loves all the kids activities and this will be her fourth cruise and second to Alaska.

We just booked a few excursions -- family friendly ones -- and are excited to finally get to do the train ride in Skagway. We waited too late last cruise to book it. So, we are riding the railway in Skagway, panning for gold in Juneau and cruising with eagles in Price Rupert, BC Canada. I love eagles and Katie's school has an eagle as its mascot so it should be fun. One day I want to do the more challenging activities like the zip lines but Katie is still too small!

Happy 4th of July everyone!