10.8.2008

What was there yesterday is gone today, those subtle side effects of cancer are not so subtle today, dad's hair has started falling out. Mom had an event at the Conference Center this evening and dad wanted to ride with her to Salt Lake. Mom took dad in through the back entrance to limit his exposure to others, dad was able to check his e-mails and briefly see a few of their friends; this quick trip back to their home away from home was just what dad needed, he looks forward to the day he can return full time. It won't be long.

Dave and I went over to visit with mom and dad this evening and while we were visiting we watched as dad's hair fell out strand by strand. The hood of dad's sweatshirt was full of beautiful silver stubble. We have been surprised as to how quickly dad's hair had grown back following surgery; we are now surprised how quickly it is disappearing.

As dad was visiting with Aunt Connie on the phone this evening we heard him say "I've heard that bald is beautiful, we'll now find out".

We think our dad is beautiful with or without hair, beanie on or beanie off; but the things we find most beautiful about our father are his expressions of gratitude, his courage, his positive outlook,
his determination, and his testimony. We are experiencing a beautiful life.