Dearest Friends and Family,

I'm heartbroken to say DeWayne crossed his final finish line yesterday afternoon.  All four kids and I were there to pray over him as he breathed his last.  I ask that you pray for us as we find our identity as a family without his physical presence.  We feel and know his spirit lives within each of our hearts and ultimately, DeWayne who believed in his salvation through Christ, has joined our heavenly Father in the place Christ prepared for him.

DeWayne and I would read your entries and marvel at the depth of love being sent.  They kept us centered and we believe God honored your prayers, lengthened his time here and put incredibly talented, God-filled hearts in charge of his care.  Your love and words held him up in moments of doubt and fear. The words "thank you" have an entirely new depth to them.

There are many stories to share and even though today, I look at the rising sun and ache for Dew's presence, I praise God for his mercies which are new every morning.  I pray for you all as well, as you start your day and miss him too. I pray that the stories you hold will make you smile through the tears and ease the pain of your loss.

I will post again to let you know when and how we decide to honor this great man I have the privilege to call my forever guy.

Sometimes, like an unexpected breeze

I feel your presence and I have to stop

And remind myself where I am

The steps have led here

I am awed and flattened

By grace, by love, by you

Your very touch buries my fears

Your skin is healing

Your heart a monster of love

Devouring me and those around us

My steps are more solid

My focus more true

My zeal rekindled for why

God placed us together

At this time

At this moment

To go beyond ourselves

Without a clanging symbol

With empty motivation

Except to listen and learn

And love and do

Our intertwined hearts

Beat in sync

As we lie in this dish

Together

(ds2017)