August 23 ----

Do you remember what day it is, Papa dear?  I doubt it!!  You're probably engaged in another lengthy conversation with the Apostle Paul and don't even remember what an important day this is!  But if you were still here, you would be the center of attraction today because it is your 80th birthday!!  I'm sure the girls in the family would be having a grand celebration for you,  and you would be having a great time watching the little ones so excited about blowing out 80 candles!!

We all miss you very much, but perhaps you are having a heavenly Angel Food cake for your 80th birthday today, and I know it would be even better than Kaylee, Angel and Brooke could make you!!
And perhaps one of the angels will take time to tell you all about the sweet and exciting things that have happened in the family since you've been gone!!

I miss you very much, sweet Papa, but I want you to know I have a deep, settled peace in my soul, and I am still trying to build the Ark according to God's perfect pattern for "Heaven Can't Be Far Away!"

"This is the old ship of Zion, and we're sailing for that city--
     I see lights so brightly shining as we're moving toward that shore;
Sometimes I think I hear singing as saints are dreaming of that day--
     It brings a thrill to my spirit, for Heaven can't be far away!

Oh, what a sight!  What a reunion!  as precious loved ones are reunited!
     I see my mother----there's my father----they're rejoicing round the Throne!
All the angels are crying "Holy" as Gabriel's horn is about to play---
     Oh, my steps are getting lighter, for Heaven can't be far away!

We can't be far from that City---I can see walls of Jasper!
     Gates of Pearl are swinging open, leading to the streets of Gold!
Saints of every land are shouting, and Heaven's Choir has started singing!
     This old body's feeling sweet release---Heaven Can't Be Far Away"!

Praise the Lord, sweet Papa!!  Heaven can't be far away, and by God's wonderful grace, I intend to  make it with the family in my hand.