Jeff didn’t care much for going out to dinner. Usually when Carrie and I we would go out to eat we would bring something home for him from the restaurant. But every once in a while we’d convince him to come out with us. One such time was in June of 2012 when we talked him into joining us at the Japanese Steak House for Carrie’s birthday.

As is custom at Japanese Steak Houses, each table seats around 10 people, so if you go there with a small group of people you can expect to be sharing the table with other folks. Birthdays and anniversaries are common and this night was no exception; we wound up sharing the table with 5 really nice young women who were out celebrating one of their birthdays.

Sometimes the tables you wind up with are so-so, sometimes they are fun, and every once in a while you really hit it off with the folks you wind up seated next to. Such was the case this evening. Everyone at the table was in good spirits, drinks were flowing, and conversation was great. A great time was had by all.

This is a picture of everyone at our table that night. Jeff surrounded by his Moms and 5 beautiful young women. His smile says it all.   I miss you so much, Jeff.

The relationship between a step parent and a step child can certainly be rewarding, as well as challenging.  Jeff and I knew that all too well.  The ups and downs, the good and bad.  I'd like to share a story that I wanted to share during Jeff's funeral, but was too overwhelmed and emotional to do so.  So, I share this with you all now:



About 8 years ago, my beloved cat, Simon, died, at the ripe old age of 18.  Jeff and his sister were visting their grandparents in Alabama when we spoke to them about this.  About one week later, the vet called me to let me know that I could come bring Simon's ashes home - we had a special place set for Simon - on our fireplace mantle.  Jeff was home by this time and offered to go up to the vet with me to "bring Simon home".

When we got there, I was still visibly upset and emotional.  As we left, Jeff simply looked at me, and gently took my hand, gave it a little sqeeze, and walked with me back to the car, holding my hand.  That little act of kindness and empathy...that was Jeff.  Sometimes without words, just by being there - Jeff told me all I needed to know - that he was sorry for my loss and shared in my grief.



The picture I am sharing with this story took place back in 1995.  Jeff and I are at one of the lighthouses on the California coast.  It was a cold and windy day, but a fun one at that.  That was the summer that Jeff and I began our 18 year path together.  I love you and miss you, Jeff.  Thank you for being such a big part of my life.  I think about you every day.