Thinking

I was thinking about my brother, Neil, this morning because it is his birthday. I went outside to scan the sky over Grain Valley, wanting to catch a glimpse of one shooting star. There are always reports that the event is a meteor shower....I never see a shower; actually, I never see one.

After Neil died, I knew I would never hear his distinctive voice or laugh again. But perhaps Neil and my Dad will have bar-be-que ribs waiting for us at the Pearly Gates. I also thought there never would be a person who could hug the way he did.

But, I was wrong. Lynne and her boys were in St. Louis visiting, as we were, a few years ago. Goodbyes began as they were leaving a restaurant. The Texans were leaving first because they had a plane to catch.We all lined up for kisses and hugs. I went to hug Joey and was enveloped in a gigantic hug. It was all-encompassing and the winter coat made it even better. As we hugged he all but picked me up and swished me from side to side. I knew right then that Neil's hug had not gone with him. It was alive and well and living in the heart and soul of his son, Joey. Long may he hug.