Dear Big Roy...

So I sit here, trying to come up with something clever to say, but I've got nothing. I think I am succumbing to the lack of sleep, and the general stress of the start of the new school year. I have some of the sweetest 3rd graders that I could possibly ask for, but FCAT is a constant weight on my mind. To say that I am on an emotional roller coaster would be an understatement! My poor, sweet Jack is watching his dad slip away, and I wonder if "being a girl" and my emotional self is a hindrance to Jack. Yet, I must say, if it is, he would never tell me or express it to me. He is that kind of man and husband. I hope I never forget exactly how blessed I am, because forgetting what God has given me would be a travesty.

Hospice has begun their daily treks out to the Raley house. What an amazing corporation they are. I watched them tenderly care for my Pappa (my Mom's dad) when he was sick with cancer, and now I know that they are taking care of Roy as well. Not only did a nurse come out today, but a doctor, too. I think they will be welcomed souls very soon at Windsong Manor. (Sheila's name for their farm.)

Jack left work today early and picked the kids and me up before heading out there at around 6 tonight. Aunt Neely and Nanette are visiting, so it was neat to hang out with them. I truly believe the sweetest, most special thing tonight was seeing just short of 100 cards and letters in a bowl on the kitchen counter. Yes, I actually counted them! I read through them while Big Roy and Shi were visiting with Jack and the kids, and was so touched by the incredible sentiments left by others. What a legacy this man has left! What a life to strive to live!! I want to thank many of you for your heartfelt cards and letters. Debi, Jan, Vangie, Leslie, and Kim to name just a few...what blessings you are!




Roy spends much of his time resting and lying on the couch, as getting up to the table takes most of his energy. I am watching this strong oak, this sequoia of a man become weak. It is so painfully obvious that it disturbs him as well. I wonder how the anger does not overcome him. I have a feeling it would me. Yet, that just isn't Big Roy. It's not his style. It isn't even in his nature. I can say, that in the nearly 15 years I have spent with Jack, I have never seen one angry or less than "normal" tone come out of Roy's mouth. In some strange way, it is actually odd. But, that is the example of who this man is. Again, what a legacy to live.

You know, I wasn't planning on doing this, but I am not embarrassed for anyone to know what I wrote to Roy in a letter. I wish my friends that follow this that have never met this man could, and so since that is not possible, let my words be a testament to who he is.



Mr. Raley,

I know so many of your cards have been Anniversary, Get well, or Encouragement; but I wanted to send you a different one. Mine is a thank you card, one probably long over due. I grew up taught by my Mom to always send one within a week, but if I did for all you have done, I would be sending one weekly, if not more.

I want to thank you for the man you gave me. I feel honored regularly that I have been blessed to have married someone who wakes up everyday with the intent of living life how you have: one with integrity, honor, and respect. You raised a man who is not only a great father, but husband, son, and son-in-law. You set the example; the bar. Jack strives to reach it daily, and he does an amazing job at it. My children and I are blessed to be the ones who benefit from that. My parents have always told me that they prayed for my future husband before I was even born. God in turn answered and honored their prayers with Jack.

I have so much to be thankful for, and the thanks go to both you and Sheila for raising him like you did. Jack once told me that if he grew up to be half the man you did, he would consider himself successful. I couldn't agree more. However; I also believe because of who you are, to him, he will also have his children say the same about him one day.

So, thank you. Thank you for letting me in on a life well lived. A little piece of Heaven on earth you bestowed upon me. I feel honored, blessed, and thankful. Please know that I will always be a good conservator of your gift. You have my word.

With love from my heart,
Kelly,
a grateful wife, mother and daughter-in-law