Today's landscape was very similar to that the of the last few: concerns early in the day about why she can't seem finally to let go; then dear friends, members of the extended family; music, laughter, and of course tears. For much of the day, Barbara was amazingly responsive and on point. Now, late Saturday evening, she's resting quietly.
PLEASE NOTE: Unless there are significant changes, I may not blog every day. If a day, or even two, is missing, know that we are all still here, much as before. When there are important changes, I will let you know (thanks to Laurel) by blog and email.
Barbara,
ReplyDeleteFeel like I was the last one to know of your blog, but despite the cyber-ignorance, you have been with us most days.
When sunsets tease us to the top of Pete's Hill (where we walked with you and Van last summer_what a treat!)and the sweet light dances on the spruce and pines, you are along for the hike, grinning and chuckling and sharing our stories and sharing our admiration for things wild and wonderful.
Skiing with Chase and Char today up at Bridger Bowl and again dancing in the marathon performance of winter meets spring. Wishing we were closer to you and your spirit today.
Our love and thoughts with you and yours. It gives us great joy to know you are surrounded by so many of your people.
Our love!
Steve, Hillary and Chase
Barbara,
ReplyDeleteI just learned of your blog site today.
I am so glad that I was able to see you at SCRA a few months ago and give you a hug.
I have such wonderful memories of coaching you in swimming and of our masters group. The Faith and Barbara lane was one of my favorites.
Despite our difference in age, I so treasured our talks and frienship. You are on of those people in my life who I always felt deeply touched by.
My love and prayers are with you today and I just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you.
Love always,
Aimee Vosti Lehr
Barbara and Van
ReplyDeleteWe are so grateful that we were able to see you in February. Our love and thoughts are with you today
Ellen and Terry
Van and Barbara,
ReplyDeleteI am thinking of you both and sending all of my love, feelings of peace and comfort. My memories of the two of you are from the 2006 trip to V, L and C. I happily remember Barbara jumping in to do Tai Chi in the middle of a park in Vietnam, Van and Barbara lovingly holding hands while walking the sites and streets of SE Asia and Barbara's vibrancy, love of life and everyone around her. What a beautiful and inspiring couple you are. Hope to live my life as fully as you two have. Please send my warmest wishes and hugs to Barbara.
Fondly,
Deborah Costa
Dear Barbara and Van, It has been such a gift to have this blog, and most recently, the image of you, Barbara, and your family gathered in your living room. You are all with us during our days and nights; your presence, both of you, a constant teaching. I trust you hear and feel our love and prayers as we walk with you. With Love, Anne Hillman
ReplyDeleteThis blog really is a gift to those of us who know and love Barbara. Thanks for doing it, and thanks for the pictures.
ReplyDeleteLove
Bea and Paul Kolodziej
My dearest Barbara:
ReplyDeleteMany years ago you invited me to your home, your life, your love,and your care. What you provided to me enabled me to heal my broken wings and fly off in a different direction.
With much heartt-felt love and never-ending appreciation:
Your loving "son"
Terry
Barb (Van,Peter,John,Betsey -chronological order)
ReplyDeleteCathy's 48th birthday was Monday and I realized that's how long we have known each other. (Betsey came along a few months later.) What fun our whole family has had with yours over the years and how proud we are of our "kids". Anyway we are all looking back fondly down "memory lane" - too many to put into print here. You are truly such a nice human being with so many accomplishments and talents who I have always admired so much! I want you to know that I am constantly thinking of you right now and have been so happy to have been your friend!
Love,
Na and Stan, Greg, Brad, and Cathy