Dear FOB:  I have little to add to Caity's eloquent posting about Barb's death, save two thank yous.

The first is to all of you who followed along on Caring Bridge over the 2 1/2 years of Barb's battle with glioblastoma, especially to those who provided love and encouragement through journal replies.  I have long believed in the power of encouragement, as was evident for Barb.  She read (and listened when she could no longer read) to the many journal replies from family and friends from our way stations over the past 50 years.  She took great pleasure in them, and derived the energy and optimism she needed.  Her positive outlook enhanced the duration of her life, without question.  Thank you so much.

The second thank you is to Brian and Caity who, along with their spouses Jamie and Mark, took over the hospice function when it was time.  Their care for Barb over the next four days was exquisite.  As a result, her death was comfortable and peaceful; the scene will stay with me as long as I live. I am so proud of how they worked together as one.  Thank you guys. 

I'll sign off with a favorite quote from Victor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning:  "Love is the ultimate and highest goal to which man can aspire....The salvation of man is through love and in love."