Dell's gone, but his life still holds sway over me.

Kathryn, Charles, Taylor, Landon, Jennifer, April, and Eric.  Dogs:  Murphy and Randy.

Jennifer and her two children, Taylor and Landon, are Dell's child and grandchildren.  Although he has been gone now for some 17 years, his presence is felt through them and the remainder of his family.  

We had a whirlwind visit this weekend as Jennifer and her kids came to visit and stayed overnight for two evenings.  We played cards, went to the beach, and reconnected.  It has probably been eight years since I saw them - a lifetime in a child - and it was wonderful spending time together.

Neither Kathryn nor I are related to any members of the Silk clan, and yet my connection to them runs deep.  Friendships that span both time and distance have allowed us to remain connected on some level.  My own family is both distant and unengaged.  It's nice to feel the acceptance that comes with family, even if you aren't part of one.  Sitting around the table playing cards was a memory coming to life, the players being different from ages ago, but the feelings the same.  The banter, silliness, and unspoken sentiments filled the air with the warmth that only family can bring.

Although Dell is long past, I feel his presence even today.  I can imagine him looking down on us in benevolence, seeing us mixing it up like in days gone by.  I do miss you, buddy, every day.

Eric.

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