Dear Dustan,
Each one of my cousins has a very special place in my heart and you are no exception. I want you to know how much I appreciate your friendship. Maybe I should call you and express this but sometimes it is easier for me to get the words out in writing.
Last time you had brain surgery I talked with you on the phone and the words had a hard time getting around the lump in my throat. When I hung up Luke patted my arm while the tears slowly dissolved the lump. Luke traveled to Hong Kong to see you during the time of that surgery and I sent along a scrapbook of pictures and messages. I don't know what it meant to you but for me it was a tangible object showing all the memories we have shared.
I was hoping there would not be another surgery.
Sending the scrapbook felt important because it represented the memories and its the precious memories that link us and though I can't pin down the first memory with you- the early ones are playing at grandma's house. I remember one gymnastics show in particular. I might have such a distinct memory of it because of the pictures but I cried because I couldn't be in every routine. (Sorry, I was probably often a bratty little kid) It's hard to see you in this picture but you are there; your elbows visible below my outstretched arms. You held Andree up for this routine. Playing at grandma's house with you was fun.
You were always willing to give piggy back rides even though we usually chose cousin Edwin. You were so tall that riding on your back put us closer to the ceiling than we were comfortable with.
In high school you would come visit us and those times were exciting (yeah for jeeping!) but the summers are what stands out. Do you remember the fence that you boys built for the neighbor? I would bring supper to the field and it seemed like a little party every day. You were so good at appreciating my cooking efforts. Its always nice to cook for people who relish the food you serve and you were a good one to cook for.
My wakeboarding skills peaked the summer we went to the lake every Sunday evening. After working in the hay field all day we would grab a bag of fritos and some apples to munch while driving to the lake. Spending the last hours of the day cruising the wake until the sun set. I don't know that I have done as well on a wakeboard since but I will never forget the encouragement and instruction that came from the boat each time I went out. I would always wait to get the signal for optimal jumping time.
When I went to college more time was spent at your house than in the dorm. Your friends became my friends and weekends were spent camping, hiking and rock climbing. I guess since I am walking down memory lane I might as well pause and remember that wonderfully awkward "super cousin date." Not sure who gets the credit for that idea but it was interesting for sure. Four of us cousins with our dates. Together. Stressed me out at the time (still would actually) but its funny to reflect upon now. College was fun to the max but I didn't know how it would be when you moved away. You moved away and married the loveliest lady who inspired me to do things I didn't think were possible (Landscape design school : Crazy talk). Schedules have aligned poorly the past few years and I have not seen you in so long. You have kids now! And I have not met them! (such adorable girls)
The tumor is back and you are having surgery again, this makes my heart ache. We never know what the future will hold but I trust that God has you in His hands. Its seems cliche to say that I am praying for you but that's what is happening. How else could we bear the burdens of this life? You have been a blessing to so many. Never mind all this rambling nostalgia. I should just say- You have been an important part of my life. Whatever may come, I look forward to the Eternal Life. Thanks for being the best cousin any little girl could hope for.
Much love,
Elisa
1 comments:
Praying.
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