This weekend, we were blessed with the company of Shawn's cousin, Troy, who flew in
from Arizona to spend a few days with us. To say I feel eternally grateful to Troy would
be an understatement. He was a blessing in disguise to us the day of the accident:
inviting me to switch vehicles and ride with him for the second leg of our trip, thereby
saving me from being in the accident. He was the first to hear about the accident on
his headset, remaining focused and calm as he drove me to Shawn. He stayed with me
at the scene, listening to me as I barked out orders and keeping us all on task. Troy and
his mother, Aunt Lisa, drove me to the hospital as Shawn flew ahead of us on the
helicopter. They stayed with me during one of the longest nights of my life, keeping me
sane and providing me with the strength I needed to go on. He helped me give Shawn
his first bath, stood by my side as doctors came and went, took phone calls when I
didn't have the strength to tell the story one more time. Troy came to the
hospital throughout the 3 weeks we were there, bringing us food and good cheer. He
was there for us during one of the most difficult times we have ever endured and
continues to do so today. He will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
The weekend was spent much like every other weekend has gone these last few weeks:
our family together, the kitchen busy and full, time outdoors, chaos and noise, work and
rest. We spent time out in the yard as soon as the girls woke up, attempting to beat
the intense summer heat that has long outworn its welcome. Shawn and Troy took
over dinner duty on Friday night and gave me a break from the kitchen and I honestly
didn't know what to do with myself. As much as I love to cook, having a break from time
to time is priceless. I sat at the kitchen table while they prepared a delicious Mexican
feast, propping my feet up with a cup of tea. We watched movies, drank cold beer,
and enjoyed each other's company. It was a great weekend.
Our friends and family often ask me what they can do to help us through this time.
My answer has been consistent from day one: just be there with us. Give Shawn a call
and an encouraging word, let him know you are thinking of him. Drop by for a visit, tell us
all about your day. The best way to help is just to be present. We have been so blessed
that the people around us have happily obliged.
