This is Lorraine here, Craig's daughter in law ( & Matt's wife).  I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to all who have reached out to Craig and Margie and all our families.  The cards, emails, prayers, service, phone calls, delicious food, gifts, etc. have been loved, read, felt, consumed, and appreciated.  We cannot thank you enough.

The cards and emails are the perfect way to express your love to them right now, as Margie can save them to read to Craig when he's feeling well--or as well as one can feel in his state.  We know most of you would like to see him and give him a big hug, but written hugs are best now.  He'll still feel them.   

Craig mentioned today that he's a little bit embarrassed that a lot of people are making a big deal about him.  That's Craig for you, always concerned about keeping his humility in check.  We assured him that it's ok for people to make a big deal--because come on--he IS a big deal and it's certainly not going to go to his head.

We'll have you know that even in his emaciated condition he still has his sense of humor.  Here are the latest examples:  Last night he mentioned to Matt and Cheree that he felt like he needed just a bit more pain relief.  Shortly after he pushed the button for more pain medicine, Matt asked him how fast it takes effect.  Craig said, "Pretty fast," and then instantly flopped back against his pillow, pretending to be knocked out.  Cheree at first thought he had passed out, but that jokester Craig was just pulling their legs.

The night before that a few of us were playing with this toy frog that makes a sound effect almost like a cricket.  Matt had been in another room and just before he returned Craig asked if we still had the toy and if we could hide it to trick Matt into believing there was a live cricket in the room.

We've been talking about all the questions we don't want to forget to ask Papa. So today our oldest daughter Ella (14) asked for some advice as a jazz musician (Ella plays the bass like her dad).  Papa said, "practice the hardest parts," and then explained that A flat major through A major scales (going through the circle of fourths) were always the hardest for him.  So, he practiced and practiced them until they became easier than the others. "Focus on your weaknesses, and work on them the most," he counseled.  I think he applied that idea to more areas than just music. What great work ethic he had. 

The advice he gave to me not long ago is to personally thank people I associate with (in my church calling, or other) and mention specific examples of ways that they have touched someone, improved a situation, etc.  He went on to say that doing that makes people even better because they'll want to live up to the compliment and they'll never forget it. 

Well, I know everyone reading this loves Craig and is praying for him.  Today I couldn't help but think of the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" and how fun it would be to see a video version of all the people Craig has influenced, touched, changed, loved, taught, rescued, served, etc.  One thing is for sure, his influence will never end.  He is a great man and has truly lived a wonderful life.  

We love you Papa.