Dear Carl,

It's been awhile since you left us. I'm sorry it has taken so long to write you. Words don't come as easily to me as I would like. There seems to be so much I should say, but little time or ability to say them. Although, I think we both know that's just an excuse. I know where you are. I know there is peace, no disappointment, no cares, no pain.  You've always been patient.

I think of you often. There was distance between me and my dad while I was growing up. You filled that void. You filled the void beautifully. You and Rozelle are the reason magnolia trees make me smile, the reason I hear the different songs of birds, and the reason that even on the darkest of days I am still amazed by the smallest blooms.

You also taught me that shining your own shoes is an art; gardens are a refuge; one of the best ways to say 'I love you' is through homemade pies and  heart shaped pancakes; when family visits, every night should be popcorn and game night; love the Cardinals; and being a Christian means no matter how many times someone falls, you stand there and hold your hand out to help them back up. Thank you for helping me back up.

Rozelle still feels you with her. Since you left, her memory as worsened. She's never quite sure where she is or who is around her. But, even in the middle of her confusion, she'll mention that she still feels you with her.You should know that...you probably already do. She remembers you perfectly. And it is the most beautiful thing  when I see her face as she talks about you. She remembers everything.

As I write this, I know one day soon she'll go to where you are. I guess it is possible to have hurt and joy at the same time. She belongs with you, you belong to her. You married my hero. Which makes you my hero as well. And you two are the perfect example of what love should be. And you raised my mother, who is the strongest woman I have ever known.  I'm not sure why God let me be a part of this family, but I am sure of how grateful I am and that it is a gift.

Thank you. I wish I had more poetic words to say. I wish I could think of some extraordinary phrase that ties up all I feel about you perfectly. But, all there is is just gratefulness. So, thank you. Thank you for being the kind of man I want my son to grow up to be, and my daughter to have love her. Thank you for hearing God's voice and following through. Thank you for teaching us so much.

I'm glad you finally made it home. I know you held on for us. All you taught is still with us. It always will be.
We'll see you soon...

Love,
Angela