Goodnight, Old Man

by Margie Senechal

Today's my Monday. Usually I try and get my blog written on Wednesday so I can clean it up and post it in the morning. But, yesterday, my father-in-law died after a short battle with cancer. And so, I didn't get a chance.

Last week I read a book called I Liked My Life which dealt with an unexpected death and the aftermath for the family. One of the things I loved in this book was how the victim watched over her family and perhaps influenced some of their decisions. I'd like to think that might be possible. 

I know when I have dreams of my dad--not often enough--it always makes my day better. Even if things start to go astray, I think, "I had a dad dream last night" and a loving warmth spreads through my soul. And all is well.

Image result for I liked my lifeIronically I started this book before I knew how sick my father-in-law was as he basically brushed off any health concerns when my husband had talked to him. 

While at times Mike and his father had a complicated relationship, Pete was always there when we needed him--whether it was to fix a car, change out a faucet, or just bitch about a bad call on the Seahawks. Their 2014 championship was probably one of the highlights of his life. 

When I needed a car after my car was totaled, Pete and I had to drive out to Camas to check out a Saturn--which I still own five years later--It was just the two of us and I asked him questions about his life and his parents. Stories that I could pass onto my two daughters, the only Senechals left of his line--although I hear there's a mess of Senechals scattered across France.

Well, it's time to get to work. So, for now, goodnight, old man, goodnight. Be sure and pop into our dreams once in a while.



Comments

  1. I'm so sorry for your loss, Margie...thinking of your family and sending warm thoughts your way.

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  2. Aw, Margie, I'm sorry for your family's loss. Sending prayers. A sweet farewell.

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  3. So sorry for your loss, Margie. You wrote a loving tribute.

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  4. Sending prayers for your loss, Margie. Maybe you will have dad-in-law dreams to brighten your days!

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  5. So sorry for your loss, Margie--too many cancers in this world. Wish I knew how to fix it. Hugs, sweetie!

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  6. My heart is with your heart.

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    1. Thank you, Abby! And I think I read your book at precisely the right time. Love it when that happens.

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  7. So sorry to hear this. I hope someday Mike will see that the way he went was a blessing. Watching somebody struggling for a long time is what is really terrible. I'm really glad that you got to spend that time with him asking him questions about his family and life. That is a precious gift. Prayers going out to the whole family.

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    1. Thanks, Chris. I think you're right--watching the deteriation is sometimes harder than the actual death.

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