Happy (Belated) Thanksgiving

I apologize for not getting something out to you sooner to let you know I have not forgotten about the slide show and the final words. Unfortunately the slide show is still not yet available, and I am still mewling (my dad has always liked that word) over how to express to you what my dad wants me to say.

Besides that, we had a very THANKFUL Thanksgiving. For weeks before we had labored over how to have this holiday (a favorite for our family) with Dad but not overwhelm him with all the children around all day. But because Dad celebrated his first Thanksgiving with our Brother, we were able to share this holiday as a whole family, knowing that Jesus AND our father were with us. We thanked God for giving and honoring us with Gary Hundley as a husband, father, father-in-law and Papa for as much time as He gave us. It was a peaceful and beautiful day.

My mother wanted me to express her endless gratitude to all of you and your overwhelming love and kindness you have shown us this past week. It touches our hearts to know Gary had so many who love him so dearly. We know how special he is, and it's nice to see others feel the same way! Special thanks to Ken Chaffin, Jack Hicks, and the Vaughn Forest Baptist Church for honoring Dad so with the celebration service and graveside service. Dad always planned WONDERFUL events, and these were no exceptions!

Please remember that Dad will always love each of you, and I know he will enter the Throne Room and plead for you if and when that time is needed. Just because he is not with us here does not mean he cannot still go to the Father on our behalf. One of the things Dad struggled with all this time was how he was going to "make a difference" with my children's lives (they are 3, 2 and 8 months). He was able to be there for all 4 of his other grand children's baptisms and even baptize Brooke's two youngest. That is why he wanted 10 more years-to baptize my children and lead them to the Lord. But Randy and I assured him that he will make much more of a difference when he is in the Almighty's presence-he can plead on their behalf AT HIS FEET! What more could we want for our children than a witness who will run to the Father when our children need Him the most? And we praise God that Dad can do that now. His legacy will continue for generations to come, should the Lord decide not to come and gather us all before then.

Again, words cannot express how thankful we are for all of you. We prayed for you on Thursday; please know you will hold such a special place in our hearts even though Gary is not here on earth with us. We pray now for a wonderful beginning to this Christmas season; never forget WHY we celebrate it!

Slide show and final words to come, I promise!