Thomas Ongoings: quick trip to Florida

afternoon walk to Lincoln Park

rockin' out to Caspar Babypants. E's in the blue stripe sweatshirt.

another sweet treat from our amazing baker friend E.

a quick trip to Florida to attend a funeral for Noni. Here he has his baby (teddy bear from cousin August) wrapped up in blanket.

I learned a lesson from Noni's passing - that we just can't take anyone for granted. I wish I would have spent more time talking to her on the phone and more Skype calls and more than just one vacation to Florida. E had so many good qualities. Foremost in my mind is her goodness, sincerity, and loving nature.

E was a very talented quilter. We are so fortunate to have 2 of the quilts she made. Our wedding present quilt was E's design - love beads from the 60's. we have slept with this quilt on our bed for several years now. She also did the applique and quilting on a quilt for E (J's design) with sweet bears eating honey. He sleeps with this quilt on his bed. Giving away a quilt is not easy after spending so much time working on them. We will treasure these quilts.

Her last email I received was a typical one she forwarded- subject was How to have God in your life. she seemed to live this - excerpted from the email: No matter how bad things are in your life (having to live with chronic pain), there is always something you can thank God for. I appreciated how E was always faithful and a happy Christian. I respect how she found comfort in her religion.

She was a giver. She gave all her energies to her family. helping J and E with jobs and health concerns. bringing D to live in her home. She sewed wonderful Halloween costumes for her nephews to wear for many baby and toddler years. E has received many fun little things from his Noni. the most recent was a little bus with Mickey Mouse and Goofy hanging out. he has L and E to thank for Disney exposure. :) She always was thinking of what tee shirt or Christmas tree ornament he would enjoy and sending it out in a surprise package.

My favorite memories of E are these:

- learning how a sisters' relationship can be so strong, supportive, and important all the way through life. G and E's relationship was the way I want mine to be with my sisters all through our lives.

- E welcomed me to the family wholeheartedly. I remember having good frank phone conversations with her about life, food, family, work, religion, and interests.

- I remember her laugh and her smile. We always knew that she loved us.

We will miss E very much. We are comforted to know that she is no longer in pain. I think she will be watching over all of us like an angel until we meet again.

E was a champ on the plane.

It was great to meet and get to know more of my husband's side of the family. Uncle B - Nana's brother putting rabbit ears behind E's head. He was helpful to explain things to E- such as how Noni is up in heaven waiting for us to join her.