11/12/08

Dear One  -  Uncle Bud,

 You were there when I took my first breath and then my first steps and soon the very air I breathed was full of excitement when I knew you were coming.

You were there when the sugar cube Christmas village was built and at the kumla feeds, often doing most of the preparation.

 You were there at Red willow Lake for picnics and family fun and for the marathon cards and pegs games enjoyed by everyone.

 You were there scratching on my screen window at midnight for a surprise visit and back rubs that must have caused you pain, but you never complained.

 You were there when the thrill of Lake Okoboji was uppermost in my mind and when the old black Plymouth "gave up the ghost."

 You were there on drives up the North Shore as the waves hit the rocks and at London Road when the apples fell from the trees.

 You were there when I pledged my love to the love of my life and as my family--Doug, Kristin and Karli--learned to love you almost as much as I did.

 You were there when you often told me you cherished me almost as much as a daughter and when cancer claimed you, leaving this world with strength, dignity and grace.  

 You are there, and always will be, in my thoughts and memories and no one can ever take the place of your special love and presence.  Even though you have left this earth and will be missed by all of us that love you, we are sustained by the knowledge that we will see you again.

 From a heart full of love and hope,

"Sassy"