Richard's father's funeral

In February Richard’s father, Red, had an operation. The operation went well. Red was stable and he was sent back to the small hospital at the senior village where he lived. Red's condition and our emotions went up and down the month of March. Our daughter, Caroline sent emails and made phone calls keeping the whole family informed about Red’s condition. In an effort to find out what was really happening, both our daughters, Caroline and Jamie flew to Florida to visit their grandfather on March 19th. On March 22, Red died. Red's will was read at the senior village. He stipulated that Richard do the funeral service. We made plans to return to Virginia. We weren't able to get a flight to America for 4 days. Even though we were anxious to go, Richard used the time to prepare for the funeral. Once in Newport News we were welcomed and supported by our family and church there. We connected with friends and relatives there. At the graveside service, Richard did a great job. When the sailors presented a US flag to Richard's younger brother, he cried. Two days later we returned to Thailand thankful for the opportunity to be with family at this time.