Father's Day 2023

Dear Andy and Matt,

The 4 kids were together this weekend, here at the farm.  For the first time since you died.  It was heartbreaking and beautiful.  They are amazing kids.  You'd be so proud.  I know you are so proud. 

Your dad brought them down and I think there was nervousness on everyone's part.  What do they have in common besides dad's that are dead?  Would it be too much?  Would they regret coming, would we feel sad all weekend?  

But that's not how it went.  These 4 hit it off right away.  They bonded and laughed and joked like siblings.  

They stayed up late around the campfire just the 4 of them and I fell asleep listening to their laughter.

And on Sunday morning, on Father's Day, they picked flowers and walked up to the spot where their dad's remains rest.  Another first.  

You are both gone.  But here are these bright and beautiful children, loving each other, holding each other up. You are in them so strongly.  Bringing them the best of who you are, guiding them still and always.