A Heavy Heart...

I've spent the last hour or so searching for pictures -- they're worth a thousand words, you know... And, are most important, when I just don't have the words. Thankfully, I can type, and don't have to verbally speak this blog posting, because frankly, I would not be able to utter the words you're reading now; and if I did, you would not be able to understand them, and would be too distracted by the tears running down my face.

This past week and a half has held the most challenging days Brian and I, and I think I could say, the Moreno family have ever faced. On Saturday, October 5th, Dad Moreno passed away. We've been reminded that "life is but a vapor"...it disappears oh so very quickly, and for us -- when you least expect it. I would never have guessed that as I watched Dad walk out of his house that fateful Friday night, it'd be the last time any of us would see him alive. Dad was struck by a truck last that night, after walking out of the building he had gone to. (There's no need to revisit the details, but if you must know, you may email me personally.) He was taken to UTMB, where they tried to stabilize him -- and did an operation to see where he was bleeding from. Surrounded by extended family in the ICU waiting room, Mom was informed that the all those on the medical team had done their best, but was unable to save Dad. Again -- there just aren't words. The numbness, and excruciating heart pain felt at the moment and many to follow felt by so many in that waiting room just can't be explained...

It has been rollercoaster of emotions & absolute flood of memories. I am so blest to be a Moreno, and am honored to be a part of the Arnold Moreno family. Dad loved me -- the in-law -- probably almost, if not, as much as he loved his flesh & blood. Any idea how special that is?! I've thanked Brian over and over again for loving me, and sharing his family with me, especially this past week. Dad was an incredible man, who loved his family first, and always provided their every need - and SO MUCH MORE. He wasn't just mediocre when it came to things for his beautiful wife, 4 kids, or one of is 8/9 grandkids -- only the best for them...and almost anything they asked or might would like, they had. Dad was the 'perfect' Popo -- in any child's eyes. Their wish was truly, almost his command. Mom kept him in line, and telling him 'no', was almost harder than telling the kids 'no', I think. :)  

Dad is and will continue to be missed far more than any of us could ever express. He taught me, so much, and I have him to thank for my incredible husband. I know I'll see glimpses of Dad each day in my Brian. The Lord blest me with Dad, and I praise Him for the days I was able to spend with him. There are so many things I'll miss -- and even more, that I wish our girls will miss from not having Popo. But, we are so very grateful for the time we had with Dad...

Dad was always feeding the grandkids -- okay, ALL of us!! This is a very typical Popo pose... 

Love this one

Dad loved us all so much. He loved people in general, and had a heart to care for all. So many have been impacted by his life, and will continue to be as he lives on through us, his family. Dad had such a sense of humor, and that has kept the family going the past several days. So many serious moments, have been turned silly, by a silly comment, just the way Dad did so often. Dad loved his wife dearly -- they had 53 years together. Isn't that neat?!

Proud Parent

Dad was a hard worker -- always working to provide for Mom, and help us kids however we needed. He was always ready & willing before we asked or even needed. He looked out for each of us, even in ways we're just now learning of. 

Christmas Last Year...

I honestly believe -- the grandkids were his world. Everything tilted just a little when the eldest was born, and just kept on going until Eliana...and then announcement of his great-grandbaby on the way no doubt had the same effect -- if not more.

Playing with Aspen

Rocking Eliana - Popo was the baby rocker -- each grandchild has at least 1 picture of Popo rocking them...it was his 'special touch'.

Happy with his family last Christmas Season

"Thank you Lord for the time we had Dad, and that he was able to impact specifically my life. Thank you for the memories we made together. Thank you for allowing our girls to meet their Popo, and have pictures together with him. Thank you for his heart, and the incredible man he was. And, thank you for your grace, carrying us through this hard season & going on without him."

This post isn't what I want it to be. I just don't have the right words today. I can't share with you how much Dad impacted my life, and  I'm going to miss him. And, if I'm going to miss him that much, I can only imagine how much the rest of the family is hurting and will miss him...(!). My meager 4 years is nothing compared to Bear's 33 through Mom's 53 years with him. I encourage you, love on your loved one a little extra each day. You never know when it'll be your last time. 

Please keep the Moreno family in your prayers. Especially Mom, Arnold, Steve, Roni, Bear - along with the spouses, and grandchildren. It's hard season, and will only take time.