Beauty Persists

Just four weeks ago Kristi walked a one-mile length of the Champs-Elysees

This was just last week, Dec 23 — the last day of our trip, enjoying the coldest coconut water possible.

Kristi seems to be resting very comfortably today — ever so slightly continuing a transition towards a time with no suffering. 

Yesterday and this morning have been incredibly beautiful — yes, extremely difficult — and, incredibly beautiful. It is truly amazing to see someone who has lived so selflessly, receive the love and honor that she deserves. 

As I sat in the quiet of this morning, the stillness permeated only by her gentle snoring, I thought about the amount of joy, heartache, struggle, and blessing that we have shared together and with so many. These words easily flowed and capture what is swirling around in my head. 

As one life slowly fades,
New life springs forth. 

Even as one quietly rests,
The young cannot contain their joy. 

As we grieve,
we rejoice in shared experiences. 

As pain has consumed,
Gentle relief finally returns. 

As one poured out love and care,
It returns one-hundredfold.

I have always been under the impression that our life together is the greatest gift Kristi could ever give to me.  I now realize that she was waiting to put the icing on the cake. She is allowing me, and all of us, to gently say goodbye. 

Even now, she’s such an f-ing badass. 

Comments

  1. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 1:39 PM

    Beautifully said Jim. My love and prayers❤️Aunt Mary

    ReplyDelete
  2. Alicia GuizarDecember 29, 2025 at 1:39 PM

    Yes she is! 💗love you both

    ReplyDelete
  3. CarolynDecember 29, 2025 at 1:40 PM

    Oh my heart hurts for you.
    What joy we just had on this cruise... and what heartache now.
    Praying for you both.

    ReplyDelete
  4. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 1:43 PM

    I felt extremely blessed to have spent a few moments with her yesterday. I said a prayer with and for her but I was blessed. She lived life to the fullest and with zest. I know God is watching over her and will keep His vigil over all of you. May God bless you Jim, your children and those beautiful grand children. 🙏💗

    ReplyDelete
  5. Karen ElliottDecember 29, 2025 at 1:44 PM

    I don't know her well, but I do know she will be greatly missed. Please give her a gentle squeeze and whisper in her ear (from me) how loved she is. And yes, how bad*ss brave she is.
    Thank you for sharing your journey with us - good, bad, and ugly. Much love, hugs, and prayers for your family.

    ReplyDelete
  6. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 1:45 PM

    Ever-giving. Thank you, Kristi, for sharing your life with all of us! Love, all the Chapas 💗

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  7. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 1:46 PM

    She has tenacious resolve that has been on display for the last 21 years.
    Jim, you're a lucky fellow to have enjoyed her life together.
    We're saying prayers for you all. Love y'all, Uncle Jack & Sandi

    ReplyDelete
  8. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 1:52 PM

    Jim, you are a towering giant of love and affirmation. God, may your peace that passes understanding continue to bathe Jim and Kristi.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Kathleen LandonDecember 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM

    You both have set very high standards for the rest of us! Love to you both.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Lisa McAndrewsDecember 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM

    So beautifully shared, her journey has been a testament to her courage and determination to not take each day for granted. I’ve been inspired to love and experience more with those that bring me joy and peace. Kristi you are a badass and your spirit and how you lived will be cherished and never forgotten.

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  11. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM

    Thoughts and prayers, Kristi! May our Heavenly Father continue to bless you and your family. You are a true warrior, and I pray you find strength in those who are with you every step of the way🙏

    ReplyDelete
  12. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 2:06 PM

    You are both f’in badasses! Strength and beauty come in so many forms.
    Your love with & for Kristi have been inspiring. My heart grieves and yet validates the release.
    All my love, Dee

    ReplyDelete
  13. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 2:10 PM

    Beautiful words about a wonderful woman and her husband cherishing her. I’m sending virtual hugs to you both with lots of love. ❤️ ♥️. Janice

    ReplyDelete
  14. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 2:11 PM

    Sending peace. P.S. You’re both f*ing badass. -kds

    ReplyDelete
  15. Janet WileDecember 29, 2025 at 2:15 PM

    I am extremely grateful that I was fortunate enough to get to know Kristi and support her in her dream journey of being a teacher librarian. The gifts that she gave to so many students in so many ways over so many years can never be truly measured, except by their hearts. Thank you for the privilege of being your friend Kristi and your colleague. The greatest journey awaits you.

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  16. Merrick BDecember 29, 2025 at 2:33 PM

    Beautiful. Kristi has always been a Rockstar. And I agree with a comment made here earlier today: you Both are Badasses!! Love and hugs, Merrick

    ReplyDelete
  17. AnonymousDecember 29, 2025 at 2:36 PM

    Yes, she is! A perfect vision of strength and beauty! What a beautiful life and family you have!

    ReplyDelete

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