A Life May End, but Love Never Does!

I am experiencing grief this week. I am lucky to say it has been a while since I have lost a loved one this way.

I am in deep sadness for my friends Casey and Shannon Morrow, as well as my step daughter, Kaylee (Casey Morrow's Daughter). Steve Morrow, Casey and Shannon's father, passed away yesterday. He was one of the kindest people I had ever met. From the day I met him, he invited me in to his home with open arms and an open heart. He passed these traits on to his girls, who have been an immense impact on me and my life. We are all extremely close and I would do anything for these people. He gave to everyone and never expected any thing in return. He loved his children and grandchildren with everything that he had and never hid his pride in his family.

I am going through this tough time, thanking God that I got to know this man. I am also eternally appreciative of the fact that I got to spend time with him the night before he passed.

I had skipped my normal Monday workout class due to a splitting head ache. This is not like me, I normally do not miss this class, but God was calling me to go home. Around 9:00pm, my best friend Heather invited me out for drinks, for a chance to catch up and relax. I almost said no, but decided to go and spend time with her. When I walked in to the bar, the first person that caught my eye was Steve. I was so excited to see him, and unbeknownst to Heather, darted right over to him to give him a big ole' hug. He is a great hugger, anyone that knows him, knows this. We chatted briefly, and off I went to sit with Heather. I will always remember his smile and how he could always help you feel better with either extremely good advice or a great joke.

A little time passed that evening then Steve came up to say goodnight. He was ready to go home for the evening, but didn't leave without coming to get one more hug. We had a really lovely and enjoyable conversation where he got to meet Heather for the first time. He told stories about his girls, his grandkids and cracked a few of those jokes I told you about. I had never said it to him before, but right when he left I told him "I love you and to be safe." He returned the kindness and  joked that he "only lives two blocks away."

I didn't sleep that night. I don't know why, but I couldn't sleep. Normally, I can't stay awake once I hit the bed.

The next morning on my way to work, I was informed that ambulences were outside Steve's house. I immediately burst in to tears, not even knowing the outcome. I kept saying "I told him to be safe, no way, I just saw him..." Over and over and over. I found out later that he had passed on and it created a void immediately.

He was kind, funny, loving and strong. He left behind a legacy of wonderful, strong, beautiful children and grandchildren and will be greatly missed. To him I am indebted. The gratitude I have for his love, openness and strength is immense and will never fade.

For Casey and Shannon: I will always be here for you in any capacity I can be. You are my friends, and I am lucky to have you. We are all praying for you, that God may wrap his hands around your hearts and give you the strength and understanding to get through this. For times that are bleak, lean on us, your friends and family and let us remove that burden on your heart.

My dear Kaylee- You have changed my life. You are the sweetest young girl I have ever known. I have no children of my own, but I am proud to call you my step-daughter. You are smart, loving and superbly beautiful. I know you don't completely understand what is going on right now, and that is ok. Your Papa loves you and is so proud of you. He lit up at the sound of your voice and couldnt help but smile when hearing your name. You were his favorite little girl, and we all know why.

I don't know how to put in to words the impact that this family has had on my life or how grateful I am for each and every one of them, but I hope they know how much I truly care.

Rest In Peace Steve Morrow- Your love and legacy will live forever. We love and miss you dearly!