Sometimes you expect it, sometimes it comes from out of nowhere and knocks you off your feet. On August 17, 2010, around 10:35 p.m. my phone rang while I was watching a TV program. Who could be calling this late I puzzled? When you’re a mom with children, you always answer. “Hello this is Heidi,” I said. “Hi,” the other voice replied on the other end, “This is Vince.” Vince was my younger brother who lived with my dad in Grants Pass Oregon. Vince cleared his throat. “Heidi I have some sad news,” his voice now breaking up, “Dad died.” Stunned I asked him to repeat what he had just said. Confirming once again those same words, I sat motionless. I could not believe it. Yes, it was true my dad was up in age, over 93 years old and he did have a stroke several years ago. The family though agreed, he had recovered beautifully, using a walker, reading, watching old movies, and drawing and painting up a storm, because he was an artist. Read next feature >