Heaven gained an Angel

Even though Jonathan and I have known each other and been together for over 13 years, there was one thing we have never experienced together and that was the loss of a family member.

 About two and half years ago, grandpa Bruce was given the devastating news that he had cancer and the doctors gave him only 3 months to live. Little did they know, Bruce was a fighter. He would not let this horrible disease bring him down without giving it everything he had. 

And with no complaints, he did just that. 

As time progressed, the cancer spread and while he still looked good and had a bright smile, the cancer was taking a toll on him. 

On May 10th we received the call that he wasn't doing well and we should come down that night to say our final goodbyes. It was a hard and difficult night and in the morning, when we heard he was still hanging on, Jonathan and I went down to spend the entire day by his side. Even though he was heavily medicated and in and out nearly the entire day, we read to him, sang to him, played music for him and just sat by his side. We even found his pocket prayer book and read it to him. 

It was such a peaceful and comforting day, one I will never forget. 

After other family members arrived, Jonathan and I left to head home to pick up the girls. It wasn't even an hour later that we got the call he had passed. He was finally pain free and in heaven with Jesus.

This last Monday, we had his memorial service down at the Miramar National Cemetery and celebration of life at Aunt Sue's house. The service was very special, with the gun salute and flag presentation. One of my favorite parts was when one of the Navy officers presented 3 coins to Grandma Shirley - representing Honor, Courage and Commitment. Three things Grandpa Bruce exuded. 

Grandpa Bruce - while you're no longer with us, you'll be in our hearts forever. As your granddaughter in-law, I'm forever grateful for you. For being a man of loyalty, honor, love, kindness and faithfulness. I have no doubt the Erickson men learned these things from you. You are missed, but we know you are in a better place and we will see you again one day. 

You Are Loved <3

Rest in Peace Grandpa

xo

The Fourth of July

We had such a fun time this 4th of July! It was so hot and I had a genius idea to walk down to the Lake Forest parade, which was a mile and a half. I admit, it wasn't the best of ideas when it's 90+ degrees outside and walking home is uphill, but it was a great workout and we all walked off the calories we ate that day :)

The girls had such a great time! They sat in the wagon and I'm so glad we took it since it gave them some shade! 

Next year we are definitely bringing an easy up - it was H.O.T.

I can't get enough of these 4th of July cuties!

The girls loved the parade! Especially when candy was passed out by different participants in the parade! They also loved seeing their Uncle Scott drive by! How fun that we bumped into him! Such a great surprise!

We sat next to some of our friends and Jayden was SO excited to see her Nate-Nate! I love their little friendship ~ such kindred spirits <3

After the parade we had some friends over for a BBQ. We brought out the slip-n-slide, water table and kiddie pool for the kiddos. They LOVED it! 

Of course our little Savannah is the only one wanting to wear a jacket when it's 90 degrees outside!

The guys...

& their wifeys :)

Love those mamas!

Such a fun day with friends and family! <3