A Huge Thank you!

Dear Friends,
It has been several days since my last blog and I have to tell you they have been some extremely tough days. You all know that my dad passed away Tuesday morning and since then we have been on a freight train recovering. The viewing was Thursday night and it was an incredible blessing seeing so many of you and please know if I didn't get to talk to you much your presense was so appreciated. I have never known the strengh that just being there can give to someone. It made the night a time where I felt I could share my dad with everyone and celebrate the incredible life he led. My only regret was not being able to talk with everyone as much as I wished I could.
Friday was tough, that is the only word I can think of. Saying good-bye and watching my dad's body being put away clearly reminded me that we only use these imperfect bodies for a short time and when our spirit leaves the body is just an empty container. I know for certain that my father is in heaven rejoicing. In a strange way it gives hope for my future. It was so comforting to see all of the friends and family come and walk that journey with us. It would be so lonely to be alone. I can't thank everyone enough.
The amazing event for me was looking over my friend's shoulder and seeing my best childhood buddy (from age 4) standing waiting for me. Jennifer said she just knew something was wrong and started reading the obituaries from Indy. Jennifer you are a blessing. I have no question that we were bonded as babies and that it is a mighty strong tie. Other friends, Tina, what a comfort to have you there as well as all of the church friends and relatives. I can't thank you enough.
Le Peep was wonderful! The whole mood of the day was brighter. My dad would have loved sharing his favorite restrauant with his friends. The food was terrific and the fellowship even better. Thank you Le Peep friends for doing such an awesome job!
After everyone left from the funeral I was left alone with my thoughts and that was when I began to notice how tired and beat up I was emotionally. I called my brother and sister and we all felt like we had run a marathon. It was a great day though. I wouldn't have changed a thing.
Now we have to turn our attention to the living and that is my mom. Today was spent working on getting her organized. She is forgetting to eat, has not been taking her meds, not been taking care of herself physically and we fear she may regress even more. Please pray for her. We are all hurting but her loss is immense. She has not only lost her husband but her friend and companion. No one can fill my dad's shoes on that one.
Dementia is a terrible animal. The more I learn the more I am so afraid of that path. It is like a thief in the night that robs you of your greatest possessions, your memories and health. I hope through this I can help others eventually when I am healed. It is like nothing I have ever dealt with. I am constantly asking myself what I should have done differently and something always comes to mind. Regret and sorrow follow this disease as closely as a shadow. It is something I hope to put behind me quickly.
So to my followers, and I now know there are many, I thank you for your prayers, thoughts and compassionate actions. I hope I can return the kindness for all of you. My life has hit a very low valley but I can see many arms reaching down ready to help me climb out. Thank you for everything.

Love,
Debbie