I am sitting on the deck of our home by the “Big Dam”. We no longer live in the old farm house where you grew up. In the distance I hear a meadowlark singing praises to his Maker. Right before me a couple of ducks are gently gliding across the water and I can hear the croaking of the frogs. The prairie is a beautiful green and it’s almost time to pick those wild yellow sweet peas. Ah, what memories!!!!!!

It’s hard to believe that twenty years have gone since you left us. Your leaving was so sudden! There was no time for good-byes. Maybe that was all the better because you know how Mom hated to say good-bye!

So much has happened since you left us. Yes, we do have a camp here on the ranch just like you planned, Lyle. Literally thousands upon thousands have come down this driveway since you left us. Oh, I could tell you so many stories about lives being changed. Someday when we are all together again, maybe we can introduce you to all of them! I expect you to do the same! After I take my eyes off of Jesus, the One Who saw me through some mighty rough times, maybe you can introduce me to some of your old friends like Moses, David, Paul and Timothy. I’m sure you know them all well by now!!

The sun is now setting behind a cloud, another day gone forever! Your dad and I still miss you even after these twenty years. We are both getting older and a little bit slower in step. That new body promised us is going to be pretty wonderful!

I must tell you about our five grandchildren before I close. Lana got married back in 1984 to Chris Morris. They already have a teen-ager in their house. Jason reminds me a lot of you Lyle, especially his walk. Jana looks just like her Mom, your sister Lana. Joel looks much like his Uncle Larry, but acts a lot like you, Lee! Your brother Larry finally decided to marry, we all were beginning to wonder when he would take the big step! He married Robin Paulton back in 1991. Rachel is a sweet little five year old; you would love her. Little Molly is a real spark plug, she never stops talking!! God has certainly blessed Grandpa and I in such a special way.

Oh, I could write more until the moon shines across this paper. For some reason I can’t see real well as my eyes are so misty. So I had better sign off for now.

Lyle, I so miss your big smile and your witty humor. You could cheer anyone up! Lee, how I miss your music, be it the accordian, singing, piano or your trumpet. I know the Bible says Gabriel will blow the trumpet at the Rapture,l but if I know you, you are probably trying to talk him into letting you do it!!

We love you so much,

Dad and Mom