I do not like to visit graves, but Father's Day 2023 was a different occasion. I went to Wern Kliewer's grave first, as he was the father of my children, and grandfather to my precious grandchildren. It has been 21 years since his death.

Then I went to The Forks for a lunch experience that Darrell and I had frequently enjoyed together. We loved to order from Fergie's Fish & Chips, and then eat our food on the outside tables, enjoying the view of the dock and river. This chosen day was perfect weather for this. It is important for me to do things that Darrell and I used to enjoy together.

Next was my first visit to Darrell's grave. What an emotional moment. Last time I was there was for the burial, in a foot of snow. Now it is green and lush, and his marker is in place. Many others were visiting graves of the husbands, fathers and grandfathers in their lives.

I was blessed to be loved by two wonderful men, in two very different marriages. Now the marriages are over. The memories remain. The bodies of both men lie beneath the cold, hard ground.

Sometimes I ask, "why?" But then, so many other people never experience a happy marriage or any marriage at all. I can only be thankful for both. God has been so good to me.

I may struggle with loneliness, but my little white fur-ball certainly helps. She seems to listen to what I say and even talks back sometimes.