The Firsts are the hardest, they say.

We keep coming across firsts without Perry. Birthdays have taken on a deeper meaning as we chant the family poem, thinking of Dad and our last time all together at his graveside, "Many happy returns on the day of thy birth, may sunshine and gladness be given, and may the dear Lord prepare you on earth for a wonderful birthday in heaven." He would have been 74 on April 17th. Mom said she didn't even make his strawberry cake. They had a work day at the farm, but I think no one even had the heart to bring up the subject of his birthday, though I know they were all very aware of it. Today is Krista's 26th birthday. I'm sure she'll miss that out-of-tune birthday song on the other end of the phone. I'm so thankful for him and the legacy of love and example he left for all of us. With Father's Day soon approaching, we'll have yet another first to get through. My mom is doing a great job of staying busy with serving others, though I know it has to be really hard at times. They'd been married for 53 years! We love you, Dad!