Remembering John

Today is the fourth anniversary of the death of my stepfather, John. He is the person that nicknamed me "Starshine". In a phone conversation with my mom and sister this afternoon, we had an impromtu memorial when my sister asked what one thing we remember most about John.

My sister said that she appreciated that John never seemed uncomfortable with the fact that we girls were so involved in our mom's life. Instead, he accepted our close relationship with her and supported our place in each other's life. I agreed with her. He never resented our presence in the mix of family life. In fact, he embraced us and loved us. I always felt that he wanted us there.

I said that the thing I remember most about John is his openness in expressing his affection to us. He was forever calling my mother and leaving her messages on the answering machine telling her how much he loved her and telling her to go look in the mirror at how cute she is. He would write sweet cards to me on different holidays. I came across one when I was packing up my stuff in Texas a few days ago. It was an acrostic that had the word "daughter" written vertically and then a different word going across from each letter that described me or how he felt about me.

I got all teary remembering him today. We were blessed to have him in our lives. And I know that the tears still flow because the love we feel for him remains alive in our hearts.

In loving memory of my stepfather John, who was absolutely a part of my crazy decision to buy my wedding dress four years ago in Spain with no groom in sight! This photo was taken the day I came home from Spain, just one week before John went home to be with the Lord. We took the picture on purpose, knowing he wouldn't be here on my wedding day. However, I do believe he was celebrating with me in Heaven!