five years...

"The Kiss" Father and Son

It's hard for me to believe that it's been five years since John died. I have stopped counting full moons, but I never stop thinking of him. This week I have been reflecting on the last few weeks of his life. Aside from the day to day and night to night care, we had wonderful visits with family and friends. I think these photos, taken by John's brother Joe, are a peek into the moments we shared. We enjoyed meals around his bedside, laughed, reminisced, listened to, and played music.

John made the choice to die in his own way.

I think he made a good one.

uke playing - Jimi Hendrix style

John Zentner

i have written and rewritten this post a dozen or more times. i can't find the words that truly convey the bitter sweetness of the past year. john had cancer...a battle he fought with all his might. john died on December 12, 2008. knowing that your time in this world is coming to an end can be a gift and that is how we lived the last six weeks of john's life. he wanted to stay home...no more hospitals. we took care of each other. we snuggled in the hospital bed together watching movies or looking at pots in ceramics magazines. friends and family came from near and far. birthday celebrations, thanksgiving, guitar playing, reminiscing of crazy youthful times. we savored every moment.

my life is forever changed by our love.