Lence's Clothes

   After Lence died so many emotions and feelings clouded my mind like a fog for months.  Having my best friend and beloved companion suddenly torn away from me was devastating.  My deep desire to feel close to him in any way was so powerful and at times overwhelming.  My first instinct when I physically wanted to feel close to him was to go into our closet, and wrap my arms around his clothes, and bury my face into them so I could smell his smell.  It almost felt a tiny bit like he was hugging me back.  His clothes were a comfort to me.  Sometimes I'd even sleep with them.   
Lence's smell lasted for about three weeks.  I was so sad when I couldn't smell him anymore...

   A wonderfully sweet woman, Enid Lloyd, in our Thayerwood Ward volunteered to help me make a quilt out of Lence's clothes.  I wanted Laurie, Megan, and I to be as much a part of it as possible.  So I went with Sister Lloyd and picked out the flannel for the back.  We set up the quilting rack in the homeschool room and Laurie, Megan and I worked diligently at tying the huge quilt.  It will always bring back fond memories.

   Since that time we have all taken turns sleeping with Daddy's Quilt.  It's considered a miraculous thing if someone manages to get it from Megan's grip.  She somehow manages to have it the most.

It's heavy and warm and such a comfort.  It feels like his arms around us when we curl up with it.  I am so grateful for Sister Lloyd for her service in allowing us the blessing of still feeling Lence near us...