Remembering Randall

Today has been such a sad day. The battle is over. Randall passed away this evening at his home with his family by his side. He had a glimpse of Heaven a few days ago and now he is there in his new body.

Yesterday we visited with Randall and Jenni. He had gotten worse overnight. He had a fever and his breathing was heavy. They knew it wouldn't be long. I was hanging on to a miracle for them. I didn't think it would be this soon. I didn't want it to end this way. I prayed so hard and at times I could almost see Randall healed but God had other plans.

I have never hurt this bad for a friend and their family. They are such dear friends to us. It is hard to believe this disease has taken over his body this fast. I have prayed so hard for a miracle. I know we are not suppose to question God but in times like this is just so hard to understand WHY!

This was Randall on Halloween at Lindsey's school party. He was such a fighter with a unbelievable spirit. Notice the smile on his face.

He was a picture of health 6 months ago. We have so many fond memories of Randall. He was a special man. He loved everyone, especially his family and his girls. He loved my girls. He would treat them as his own. I have been trying to remember all the times we got to spend with him and I came across a blog I wrote a couple of years ago. I took Aubree with me to vote and we went to the back room and sat down beside Randall. We were in there with all men. After a few minutes Aubree lets out a big poot on my leg and Randall said well, Holly. I know my face turned three shades of red.

He has always had a pick for Aubree. He loved the way she talked and her facial expressions. She could get him to saddle up a horse with just a sweet smile. She made him laugh. He loved making kids happy.

My girls still remember him pushing them on the big swing on the tree in his back yard. I remember in July at Lindsey's birthday party him pushing all the kids for a long time, when he didn't feel good. He apologized to me because Aubree was wanting to ride the horse and he just didn't feel like getting it out.

He felt so bad and apologized to us for not being able to help us with the garage. He always thought of other people before himself.

He loved motorcycles and I am not so fond of them but between him and Dwayne they talked me into going for a ride. Randall took me for a ride and for a minute there I understood the freedom people feel from riding a bike. Randall had a very loud bike. I could be in the house and hear him coming and think yep here comes Randall.

It just seems like yesterday that he would drive by in his truck and wave. If we were ever outside he would pull in for a chat. I AM GONNA MISS THAT!

I know Randall is OK! He is in glory with his Lord and Savior!

Now it's just figuring out how life goes on for Jenni and the girls. ONLY GOD CAN HEAL THEIR PAIN!

I can not even imagine what they are going through. The hard part is just beginning.

It was the hardest thing I had to do was to tell Alayna and Aubree that Randall died. Alayna's look was if she was waiting for me to tell her it was a joke. I immediately told them he went to heaven. Now, Aubree has been saying.... Randall is in heaven. My girls are going to miss him dearly. They really took up with him and Jenni.

My heart breaks for Jenni and the girls for what they are going through. They are a strong family and with lots of prayers they will make it through.

Pray for comfort and peace for them. Jenni has been sooo strong throughout this time. She amazes me how much she has laughed throughout this six months. I know and she knows it just by the grace of God.

I remember so well, one thing Jenni told me a few weeks ago. She said, enjoy life and don't worry about the little things. She said a year ago they were the normal family. Had a busy busy life with three girls and took everything for granted. Now it has all changed!
This really stuck with me...... She said, ya know I wish me and Randall would have GOT IT a long time ago. We have had IT for the past few years and it has just been so fun.

It means.... life itself, enjoying each other, loving each other, being thankful for what God has given you, respecting each other, laughing together, just really getting what life is all about.

When you get IT you will know.

Girls, be thankful for your husband. Be thankful for what you have and not what you don't have because what you have can be taken away!!!

To the Blacks... I am so thankful to have you as my neighbors. I love each one of you and will be praying for you all. We will get through this together.

To Jenni... I am so thankful for our friendship. You have taught me things about myself through this very hard time and God will make something good out of this. I look forward to many years of laughs and cries together. Love you!

I feel privileged to have known Randall. He was a genuine Godly man!
Found these videos of Randall thought you might enjoy. He had a love for horses. His gentle soft voice seem to sooth the horses.

WE WILL MISS YOU RANDALL BUT WILL SEE YOU AGAIN SOMEDAY!