In Memory of Travis Hendrick 1928 - 2009

Just as life does not wait around for a person to decide if he or she will live it fully, neither does death take those plans into consideration when it comes calling. Tuesday morning, as we were leaving for Galway, we received the news that Karen's dad, Travis, had passed away. Grateful we were not already in route, we wheeled around and returned to our quarters where we made plans to change Karen's ticket to fly back to the US a day early.

Once we contacted family and made all the necessary arrangements, we decided to keep our date with Galway and our hosts there, and left on a later train. Albeit short, it was a wonderful day together, seeing the beautiful coast of Western Ireland, savoring more history and Irish music. As I told our family, our Big Dad might be gone, but we have our memories that will not be taken away. This same applies to this trip. The tragedy dealt its disruptive blow, but we still hold on to something tragedy can't touch.

The funeral will be Saturday at 3pm. Karen is in route as I write this, and the kids and I will return to Nebraska on Friday and continue on to Nixa to meet up with the family. We are already a bit travel weary, so needless to say this is an added challenge. Thanks to those of you who have already sent words of condolence and support.

The link connects to Travis' obituary.

Our Family At The Burren