Things that matter

I am fairly certain I have mentioned before just how important family is to me.  My husband and my children are the center of my world.  The rest of my family, both those that are here and those that have gone on, are this amazing support system through the good and the bad.  We are the family that pretty much knows everything going on with the others just because, well we are that close.

I dedicated an entire post-the last one I wrote- on the 3 men that have been in my life longer than anyone other than my own mother, who faught a long hard battle with the monster.  I also mentioned that my last trip up the mountain to see my uncle would most likely be the last time I ever saw him.  I am beyond saddened to admit I was correct.  He passed away early Tuesday morning.  Thankfully he had a peaceful passing and none of his family had to watch him struggle.  This was his one wish.

With his passing comes a reminder of just how precious life is and the things that matter.  It truly doesn't matter what house you live in, what job you have, what truck you drive.  The things that really matter are what kind of person you are-on the inside not just what everyone sees but deep down; your family, and the memories. 

While riding to town to meet Hubs for supper last night Thing 2 says he is going to miss his uncle (actually great uncle but we just called him uncle).  Thing 1 in his wisdom says "Chunk let's not focus on him being gone, but focus on all the memories we have and the fun we had".  Pretty dang smart for an 8 year old don't ya think. 

While visiting this past weekend we got to watch some old home movies.  I know to some people this maybe cringe worthy.  Not this girl.  We had such a good time watching these movies and strolling down memory lane.  As most of the grandkids and great grandkids gather we get to hear all of these stories about when our parents were younger.  To me that is the most precious thing.  It is what holds us together.  It is what links the prior generations to the new ones.  Those memories are more valueable than gold. 

We will gather together Friday evening for a memorial service, or as my uncle wanted it, an informal gathering with friends and family.  I am looking forward to it.  I hate the reason we are having to get together, but really what better way to celebrate a life than remembering how well they lived it.