Family Matters

I mentioned in an earlier post that my brother Doug has cancer.  Once we learned that his cancer had metastasized in the liver, my mom expressed her desire to have Doug move back to Kansas to be near her.  Since Doug was not strong enough to travel by himself, my oldest brother Bruce, my sister Jayne, and I flew to Virginia Beach last weekend to accomplish the move. We spent Friday afternoon packing up his clothes and belongings, being limited by what would go in a couple suitcases and the trunk of his car. Not an easy task for sure, but consistent with the rest of the family, his selections consisted mainly of favorite books and photographs albums.  After seeing Doug and Bruce off at the airport on Saturday morning, Jayne and I began our adventure across country in Doug's car.  I thoroughly enjoyed the time with my sister (more on that later).  The greatest blessing of the trip was being able to spend Thanksgiving with my extended family, the first time all six of us "children" were able to be together in over two years.  Doug is declining rapidly; prayers are much appreciated.

Doug with Bruce in Virginia Beach

Doug with Jayne in Virginia Beach

Doug with me in Virginia Beach

Our family on Thanksgiving Day: front - Jayne, Doug, me; back - Rick, Bruce, Mom, Patrick