Uncle Craig's passing

On Friday, August 4th, I received a text message from my parents informing me that my dad's younger brother, Craig, had passed away suddenly. The news was so unexpected and so heartbreaking. He was only 60 years old. It appears he had a massive heart attack and simply passed away in his sleep. I'm not sure if it was the shock of the news or how close it hit to home with all my dad's heart problems, but it was difficult to contain the tears. Uncle Craig was really the only man I considered an "uncle" on my dad's side. I never really knew my dad's older brother, Phillip, and his youngest brother is only Nichole's age. Craig was always smiling, always friendly, always laughing (much like my dad). It didn't matter how long it had been since I'd seen him; he would give me a huge hug and tell me he loved me. He was there for the big events: my wedding, Krystle's emergency surgery (when Mom and Dad were in Maine), and so much more. Anyone who knew him was loved by him. I can only imagine the big hugs he gave to Grandpa and Grandma when he saw them. I am so grateful for my knowledge that there is life after death, and that we will see and live with all our loved ones again.

The next week, Jonas and I flew to Arizona to be able to attend the funeral. It was a quick trip, but we managed to cram in some fun stuff too. We flew in on Thursday (8/10) afternoon. Jonas was (as always) a pro traveler. Once again, he slept for nearly the entirety of the flight! I'm not sure why I got to be so lucky but I'll take it! We arrived late in the afternoon and simply went to Nichole's to hang out and have dinner before retiring back to Mom and Dad's house for the evening.

He's my son! Reading the safety manual before takeoff. 

Friday (8/11), Mom, Dad, Jonas and I visited the IDEA museum in Mesa. This is a newer museum catered to inspiring imagination, directing design, encouraging exploration, and aspiring art. Jonas had a blast! He loved the large building blocks and the "garden" area with its wheelbarrow. We also created a light bright design, played in the kitchen, and did an art project. It was the perfect place to simply let him explore!

That afternoon, we went back to Nichole's so Jonas could swim and play with his cousins (especially Kate!).

Saturday (8/12) was the funeral. Jonas did really well considering the length of time he had to sit still and be quiet as well as the exhausting heat at the gravesite. The services were beautiful. The messages were heart felt. We were all reminded to love, to be kind, and to have faith. I can't imagine what his children (my cousins) are experiencing with his loss. I don't know that I'll ever be ready to let my parents go. I'm certain there will be a void with his loss. I know Dad feels that void.

Jonas and I flew home early the next morning...and yes, he slept the whole flight again. It was a quick trip but a necessary one. I needed to see my dad. I needed to show my love for Craig. I needed to be reminded that life truly is eternal. Rest in peace Uncle Craig.