A blessing

With mixed emotions I write this post. As you know, Hugh left this world peacefully, surrounded by myself and the kids and other family. Words cannot describe the experience. Hugh was comfortable today and was aware of his surroundings. I talked with the kids about death and dying and what the experience is like. As a hospice nurse I have witnessed this miracle many times. When it is your own loved one it is even more beautiful. Worrying about the kids I explained what this process is like and that Hugh's time was very short. I wanted to give them permission to not be with him when his time came to leave us. Each of the kids immediately wanted to be with Hugh. I will be forever grateful for this experience that we as a family shared together. Hugh waited for the kids to arrive today. We reassured him that we would all be well and that he could let go and go be with his dad. We were all able to express our love for each other. Yesterday Hugh was much more cognitive and all of us were able to talk with him. He was able to assist in giving myself and each of the kids a blessing. We are so grateful for the memories that we have with each other. Many of these memories are with all of you, our good friends and family. After Hugh's passing, I was able to call Daren in Mexico. We all talked with him. Many tears were shared and much laughter. It was good for Daren as well as the rest of us to be able to share these tender moments with him, all together. After, the kids decided that we should all go to the "Training Table" to eat! That is one place that Hugh and the kids would like to go. This evening has been filled with much support, laughter, tears, and just being home. Our kids feel so much support and love. They commented tonight that there is a sense of relief. Dad is not suffering any more. The battle is over. We know that there are many difficult days that are ahead. We could not get through this time without all of the love and support. I have said before, that as a mother, there is nothing you want more than to take away the pain from your kids. They are all doing well, because of friends, coaches, teachers and family. Thank you. Please continue to keep an eye on them. :) Funeral.....? We will continue to keep you posted. We are waiting to hear from Daren as to if he is coming home for the funeral or not. We have left this entirely up to Daren. We will support his decision 100% but it needs to be HIS decision and what he needs. We are planning on either this Friday or the following Monday. We will know more tomorrow and will update then.