Heading West

On February 27th, on his 75th birthday, Justin's grandfather collapsed and was admitted to the hospital. He has had COPD for years, and had recently begun getting weaker, but it still was a shock when he died Sunday evening, March 1, from complications of pneumonia and congestive heart failure. 

I didn't know him as well as the rest of his family of course, but being a Cotten for 12 years, I feel like I knew him pretty well. Faith to God, love for Grandma (who was diagnosed with Alzheimers a few years ago), and care for his family were all so important to him. 

He and Lily were good friends last year when we were out there. 

By late Monday afternoon, we were heading west for the funeral.

But first, we headed south, spending the night at Clover and Evan's, which is three hours on the way.

(I was going to put up all the pictures of our trip and time out there in one go, but decided not to, since it was a lot. So I am just putting up some pictures of the evening we headed down to Clovers.)  

It was a topsy-turvy day, sunny one minute, storming the next. We got several inches of snow and some brilliant sunshine. Which made for an impressive sky. It was quite restful, after the rush of getting ready to go. Letting teachers know, packing for six, bringing all the snow clothes (just in case), cleaning out the van, packing the van, clearing out the fridge, emptying the trash, turning the heat down, shutting off the hot water heater.... and did we remember...? 

I love winter evenings

Fiery sunset

The beginning of 4,200 miles

The kids, packed in like sardines

Getting to Clovers, where there was a lot of snow

Marilla's birthday was two days later, so we had an early birthday cake

Little unsure seven year old

Elliott was heartily enjoying singing at Rilla

Love this. Elliott and Rilla's expressions. 

Gilbert copying Elliott. He likes that Elliott kid.

The trees on Clover's road, snowdrifts 5-6 feet up.