I've been dreading writing about my trip to see my mom and dad.  It was so hard to see my dad like this; I'm used to him being so strong.  Suddenly, he looks like he IS 79 years old...never did before.  When they had their 50th wedding anniversary in 2001, neither one of them looked their age.  I have a beautiful picture of the bride and groom.  They renewed their vows in front of a pastor.  Their first wedding had been at the Justice of the Peace, Dec 27, 1951, before dad had to go back to boot camp for the Navy.  This time, they had a big crowd there and a cake and everything!  My oldest half-brother, Donnie, walked my mom down the aisle and served as my dad's best man.  My mom's only remaining sister stood as her Matron of Honor.  It was a beautiful service, and to see the love in both their eyes for each other is something I'll never forget.  I wrote a book about their lives together for everyone to have a copy of as a special reminder of the day.  Being the only girl, I pretty much planned the whole thing myself, but my sister-in-laws helped out by getting the flowers and the photographer, and everyone pitched in financially so it could be really beautiful.  I wish we could go back to that day and I can tell dad please wear sun-screen everyday that he golfed.  SINCE I CAN'T, EVERYONE, BE SURE TO WEAR SUN-SCREEN!!! 

I know God still has dad here for a purpose, I just don't like seeing him in such pain and discomfort, such mental agony from the radiation and brain swelling medication.  It's a very tense environment and it's just my mom and my brother, David, there to help.  I asked my mom to talk to her doctor about getting the proper paperwork together for long-term care.  She seems so overwhelmed, and I wish I could be there for her!  I've got to think about Jolie, though.  The last time I was gone for 2 weeks, she was carrying my stuff and pictures of me around and crying.  I can't do that to her again.  Please pray for heavenly intervention that someone who knows what to do would come and help. 

LoveLeigh