Good-byes are hard...

I found out today that my crazy, funny, quirky, loud but gentle and sweet uncle James Keith passed away today.  It makes me sad to think of the years that we all missed together.  He was a truck driver and was gone for the better part of 10+ years.  Thankfully, we got to see him over Christmas and got to spend some time talking about the good 'ole days and reintroducing ourselves and our children.  He had never met Macy and the last time he had seen Reid he was 4 years old.  That is sad.  The only thing he remembered about Reid was how much he loved his 18 wheeler.  Now, a teenager was staring him in the face and only cares about sports and girls. 

I feel for my sweet Daddy who lost a brother.  I can't imagine.  There is a bond between siblings whether you see each other on a regular basis or 10+ years.  The memories that you have growing up are special and often times so vivid you feel like just yesterday you just ate watermelon while swimming in the river.  Only the Doty's remember how fun that was....

I know that my Dad and his brothers had some crazy times.  I'm sure they gave my grandparents a run for their money.  I can only imagine.  I hope the memories of his brother will help my Dad during the next few, hard days and in the future.

I know that James Keith is reunited with his son, Keith, who passed away in his early 20's, and his Dad, our Papa.  What a sight that was, I'm sure of it.  :)

Please pray for my Mom and Dad, Jarrell and Earline, Mimi, and James Keith's family.  I know they will all appreciate it.  I will too.

Thanks, friends...