For couple of weeks, we had this beautiful sunny weather with record high temperatures, at the same time our family was feeling record low emotions.

My dear father in-law ended his suffering Sunday morning, January 18th. He was a great and gentle man. He will be missed by all who ever knew him. For five years Dad suffered from prostate cancer. This cancer had more recently spread to his bones.

We are a very close family, four generations strong. And we all took great care of Dad. We worked tirelessly giving him IV antibiotics around the clock for weeks at a time at home. Home was where he wanted to be.

When the most powerful antibiotic was no longer working to fight the infections, together we made a choice, and we started him on hospice care, at home as well. Before this happened I understood what hospice care was, but did not know what the word meant. The word hospice means a place of comfort for travelers.

The word hospice brings us then to the subject of traveling. Bike riding is a way of travel I truly enjoy. And bike rides have long played a big part in my life. I have had many memorable rides, none more memorable than my first. Life itself can be compared to an epic bike ride.

We start our journey filled with hope and longing, to see the great joy and beauty beyond. Along the way we also see sadness, suffering and disappointment. In the beginning we are fresh and young. At midway we hit our stride, full of strength. By the end we are bound for glory, crossing life's finish line deeply tired, but satisfied.

Dad was tired and satisfied. He traveled well. We were lucky to know him, and we were sad to watch him go.

Somewhere else, others were watching, gladly greeting him as he joined them.

I want to hop on the last train in the station
no need to get yourself prepared
when you're on that last train to glory
you'll know you're reasonably blessed.

I ain't a man of constant sorrow
I ain't seen trouble all day long
we are only passengers on that last train to glory
that will soon be long, long gone.

I want to hop on the last train in the station
no need to get yourself prepared
if you're on that last train to glory
you'll know you must of paid your fare.

Doug

I am sad for your loss, but happy for the love and joy you share with Dad and with all of your family. The bike ride is a beautiful way to explain the journey. We're sending Blundervibes to you and your family and thank you, Doug, for sharing your feelings and thoughts with us.

beautiful, Doug...
you and your family are in my heart and prayers...

I'm very sorry to hear the sad news Doug. By virtue of your beautiful and moving message, I am assurred that your heart and mind are in a peaceful place. Blundervibes and prayers from my family to yours......Peace, Kevin

Beautiful words for a sad message Doug . Blundervibes sending to you and your familie from Europe .

So sorry to hear about your father-in-law. Our condolences to you & the family. Prayers just said & vibes sent. He sounds like a really nice guy...

I'm so sorry for those of you he left behind yet glad the suffering is behind him.

That was a beautiful tribute!

Prayer & Blundervibes sent.

Thank you for your support everyone.

I'm sorry to hear of your loss, DRR.

Sending blundervibes to you and your family.