Right Beside You, Always

I barely know them, but I have been watching them for years.

I have seen them out in our community at their grandson’s hockey games, at school concerts, in the grocery store, out on walks, and in church.

I start to see over the years that the woman is shaking a bit more. Her step is a bit unsure. Her eyes are anxiously searching for familiarity. She is feeling insecure in her surroundings. She can’t remember all of her words. She can’t remember all of her people.

Until she sees him.

I have seen this man grab her hand. 

Tucks her arm right into his side with a reassuring squeeze.

She relaxes. She can trust this. She smiles. She will even start to giggle.

Parkinson’s and Dementia.

Ray & Orlene, married 50 years ago this summer. They have four children, ten beautiful grandchildren, and one grandchild in Heaven

They moved into town after being out on the farm became too much.

I have always admired this man from afar. 

The love that he has for his wife astounds me.

Ray. I am not sure if you know that so many people see you and think to themselves how amazing you are for the care and love that you give Orlene.

Every single day.

Schedules, meds, dressing, bathing, appointments, reminders, researching, shopping, cooking, and cleaning. And keeping her busy in her own way so that she stays safe.

You know what else I think? 

The example you have set for your children, grandchildren, and all of us, is immeasurable. 

The way you have lived your life will be felt for generations, as the ripple of your kindness and love, spreads through the generations of your family.

You, are a man that we will always remember.

We had absolutely no idea what to gift to you but then a good friend of ours suggested meals.

Of course!! We could do 100 freezer meals!! AHHHHHHH!!! I am so excited!!!

Wait though. I can barely get cold cheeseburgers home from the drive thru right now.

How will I ever make 100 meals?

Days go by and time is ticking and I still have nothing but cold cheeseburgers. 

Then another very good friend of mine says…Amanda, let me do this for you! I have so many people that would LOVE to do this for them. Let us help you!

The offer is persistent, so I finally relent. I have to accept the help, and I am so grateful.

Grocery shopping is difficult now. The kitchen belonged to Orlene…and Ray stayed out of her way while she was busy in there baking and making unbelievable family meals. Now she will pour the salad right into the kitchen drawer, and hide the sink plugs instead.

Keeping her family on their toes like they all did to her for so many years!

We hope that these homemade meals will smell up your entire kitchen with comfort and peace for months and months.

120 meals were made by this group of women.

This is how they show you the utmost respect for the care you give your wife every single day.

This is how they are showing you their love.

And we heard that Orlene likes ice cream? So we sent a few of those to go with that Apple Pie too.

“When I said I do, I meant that I will, till the end of all time… Be faithful and true, devoted to you. That’s what I had in mind when I said I do.”
- Clint Black.

Always stay humble and kind.

Merry Christmas

~ Amanda & Trevor Wilhauk