My Dear Nikki - Paperback

"I believe those who build their lives on a firm foundation and are well rounded will be better off to withstand the turmoils of life."

- Gary James Sumner

It was shortly after that when James called the family into his bedroom. He knew it was his time to go. James felt a desire to ask the Lord for a blessing to each family member.

One by one, we knelt down by the side of his bed. James had always tried to live close to the spirit, doing what he thought the Savior would want him to do. His oldest son, Jimmy, went first.

I was the last. As I knelt, James looked me in the eyes. "My dear Nikki, even though it took a lifetime I knew you'd come. When Jimmy introduced me to you, we knew you were the one I had been waiting for" He took my hand, closed his eyes, and asked the Lord to bless me with the strength and encouragement. I'll need for my mission In life and more.

When he was finished, I wiped my tears from my face. I gave his hand a kiss and thanked him.

We left the room in silence, not wanting to disturb the spirit we were all feeling. As I was closing the door behind me, Karen lay next to James with her arm embracing him. The last words I heard James say was to his wife, "I'll be waiting for you."