We’ve Lost a Friend

Today there will be no home remodeling, no crafting, no news.  Today we will mourn the loss of, and celebrate the life of, a dear, dear friend.

Have you ever had the kind of friend who just becomes a member of the family?  That’s what we had in Brian (he’s been mentioned here before as B-Mack).  He lived two houses up from us (half a mile, in country-speak).  He was always here when we needed him, even when it meant replacing a water heater under the stairs, building a new picnic table, or even just sitting and providing comfort to Papa (or to Madre when we lost Papa).  He was Papa’s best friend, fishing buddy, coworker….brother.  He was a brother to my entire family, near and far.

Brian's and Coach's Handiwork

Brian’s and Coach’s Handiwork

If you’re the praying kind, please send one up for Brian’s  family today:  his parents, four siblings, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and cousins, most especially…but his coworkers and friends as well.  We all need them, so we can figure out how to do life without B-Mack.

That's him, in the shades, wielding the spatula at our July 4th bash last year. Our friend Steve-O is helping him cook the perfect burgers and corn.

That’s him, in the shades, wielding the spatula at our July 4th bash last year. Our friend Steve-O is helping him cook the perfect burgers and corn.

For me, he was a guitar mentor and the best duet partner I’ve ever had.  I can’t wait to sing with him again someday.

X,O,X,O,    Martie