Until we meet again...

Dad would have been 68 today. He was born August 14, 1945, the day the war ended. His birth was a celebration of hope and all things good. He did not disappoint. His was a life well lived.

In celebration of Dad's birthday the kids wanted to tie balloons to a birthday cake and send it to Papa. Kolt's main concern was that the candles would blow out before the cake got to him. I am so lucky to have these three amazing kids as a reminder of how blessed we are. They always seem to know when I need some cheering up. I look at them and know that Dad lives on. We miss you Papa...every minute of every day.

I have visited this blog numerous times knowing I should write something, anything. But, the words don't come, and the blank screen stares back. Reading past posts I am reminded of how hopeful we were. It literally makes my heart ache. This is not the outcome we had prepared for. 

But, along with the sadness and loss comes a deep sense of appreciation. We are blessed to have loved and been loved by such a great man. We have an amazing support system and a strong family. We won't give up on faith or hope and we will never forget the life that he lived or the lessons he taught us. 

The overwhelming show of support and outpouring of love we have received these past five months has been a tremendous source of strength for all of us. We are truly blessed with amazing family, friends and loved ones. My beautiful cousin Lainie sent me this quote. I couldn't think of more fitting words to describe him; 

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you lived. This is to have succeeded." – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Dad was a success in all areas of his life. That's not to say he wasn't without fault. He was passionate about the things he believed in and worked hard at being his best self. It has been overwhelming and humbling to realize the scope of his caring and love for others. He has touched and made an impact on many lives. People truly love him. I have always been proud to be James B. Smith’s daughter. I have an even deeper appreciation for it now.  

I'm not sure if anyone still reads this blog. But, it's a chapter I feel I need to close. To all of Papa Jim's army I want to thank you for your love and support. We couldn't have made it through this journey without you. We are forever grateful for our amazing support system.

As for the blog...I suppose it will ride off into the sunset. Happy trails, until we meet again. 

Papa Jim's Army

Liberty Days honored Dad at their 4th of July celebration. This was the t-shirt. Dad was instrumental in getting fireworks for the Liberty Days July 4th celebration, among other things. He loved Liberty and the wonderful people who live there.  It will always be home.

The Miss Rodeo Utah organization inducted Mom and Dad into the Miss Rodeo Utah Hall of Fame. What an amazing honor. 

The Ogden Pioneer Days Foundation surprised our family with a tribute to Dad and unveiled this beautiful stone dedicated in his honor.  They placed it in the garden area of the hospitality cabin at Ogden Stadium. 

Here are a couple beautifully written tributes:

http://www.standard.net/stories/2013/03/11/remembering-jim-smith

http://www.standard.net/stories/2013/03/06/community-mourns-death-cowboy-legend-jim-smith

Obituary:

http://obitsutah.com/obituary/18747/james-jim-bert-smith.htm