Celebrating Life...Present and Eternal

Today we celebrate a life that was born 10 years ago and one that started his eternal life in Heaven.
Howard Parks, our brother-in-law, died today of cancer. He was very special to our Allie. When he was diagnosed with lung cancer and ended up in the hospital just 2 weeks ago, she sobbed. She was so sad that Howard was so sick. She said, "He was my friend."
We met Howard in the spring of 2008 when we drove to Texas from Oregon for a family reunion. Shane's sister, Debblynne and Howard had already been together for several years, but we had not met him before. He was very giving in his friendship to us. The boys had a great time going to his house to shoot at his shooting range and to ride 4-wheelers. He took Allie to the mall to buy her a "real" cowboy hat, which she wore proudly....and still does. Howard treated our family to a night at the rodeo. It was a lot of fun.
My heart aches for my sister-in-law, as I know she and Howard loved each other deeply. They were such a perfect fit.

I love the verse...."For such a time as this"....
God blessed us by allowing us to Howard, and He moved us back to Kerrville, "for such a time as this.". Shane and I were able to see Howard in the hospital in San Antonio 2 weeks ago. At the time, Howard was not very responsive, but when Shane prayed for him and spoke to him, he seemed to respond. Shane told him about God's love for him and that all he needed to do was talk to God in his mind, and God could hear him. Shane told him that he just needed to ask God to live in him and He would. When asked if he understood, Howard nodded his head.
They moved Howard to a nursing home a few days ago, here in Kerrville. Shane was able to take Allie, Jazmin and Francia to visit him on Sunday. Howard was able to talk some and visit some. Shane has been up there every day this week, getting another chance to make sure Howard was prepared for eternity. Howard said he was.
This morning, at 12:04 am Howard got to meet Jesus. He no longer is in pain and weak. He is strong and healthy and celebrating life....eternal life.
I told Allie that Howard is celebrating her birthday in Heaven. He is probably watching her life video with God and seeing her when she was such a chatter-box at 2 years old. Allie is happy that she shares this special day with Howard, her birthday and his BIRTHday.