The wonderful life he led

Well, we knew the day would come that one or both of the fish would kick the bucket.

Bolt has passed. I know.... I know. I'll give you a second to compose yourselves.

We spent a lovely weekend in Nevada visiting Nils' parents. The fish were being babysat by the neighbors, and all was well until Monday afternoon when Bolt was found floating. It's sad that he died on the neighbors' watch, because they blamed themselves. I explained that these fish have lived way longer than is normal. Nils and I were tempted to ask them to keep the other fish until it died, but that wouldn't be nice, would it?

So, for FHE we talked about death. Tender. We explained the whole "spirit leaving the body" deal, and broke it to the kids that Bolt's spirit no longer resides in his body. Anders was sad for about 10 seconds. Addie said, "BOLT'S DEAD???" and then she sobbed for the rest of the night and was inconsolable. I said the closing prayer and said, "We're thankful for Bolt, and the wonderful life he led..." and laughed and laughed. I tried to muffle the laughter to sound like crying, but I don't know how effective that was, and yes, I know I'm going to perdition.

Anders did flushing honors, since it was his fish. Then he wanted dessert.

And, this was Addie for the rest of the evening. Bless her heart.

So long, Bolt. It's been real!