My Uncle Bob died this last week.

He was Grandpa’s oldest brother.

When I got the call, I was hoping Grandpa would attend the funeral.

I even offered to help drive or fly Grandpa and/or Grandma to Alabama to attend.

They said they couldn’t make it because Grandpa is busy doing infusion therapy trying to cure his CIDP…

Granpa and Grandma made a few other excuses too, but it finally boiled down to the fact that Grandpa did not have the energy, and Grandma did not feel like she could leave Grandpa alone.

After a bunch of indecision and nonsense back and forth, I felt like I should go.

So I booked a last minute flight and woke up at 4:00 AM to catch my flight.

The funeral was beautiful and sad.

The best part of my trip was staying up late and talking to a few of my Aunts and Uncles and cousins.

My Aunt Lou, Cindy, Darlene, and Angie kept me up till 1 AM talking and telling stories!

I am SO glad I decided to go.

My advice is to show up for people that you love. Both friends and family.

Mom reminded me of what I have said before:

We are a family that shows up for weddings and funerals.

So no real decision next time…

It’s as simple as that.

What I remember most about Uncle Bob is fishing with him and Grandpa.

We would fish all day in the humid Alabama heat in some pond on some land that a friend of his owned.

That night would would have a big fish fry.

Everyone coming and going it felt like I had the biggest family in the world and I remember eating hushpuppies until I was stuffed.

He owned Terrell Enterprises in Greenville, AL – and was probably the best natural salesman I have ever known.

I love you.

-Dad