For Tabatha

Dear Daisy Cottage Family,

I received an email from a very sweet man, Jack, a little while ago.

With his permission, I am going to share it with you too.

Dear Kim,

 

My name is Jack Benke. My beautiful wife Tabatha passed away last Saturday at the young age of 42. She had been battling cancer for the past two years. I find my peace in knowing that she is in a beautiful place now and that I know that she is not suffering anymore. I know you never knew her, but you were such an inspiration in her daily life. In the last month's, she never missed a day of going to your web site and listening to your music and reading your web page. It gave her a great deal of peace during a time when she was in pain. We were able to pull your music off of your web page, and those were the songs that we played at her service. As I stated, you never knew her, but you were an inspiration to her, and I thank you so very much for that. I will continue her daily visit to your web page and listen to your music. Thank you again and God bless you.

 

Jack Benke

As you can imagine, my heart has been touched in a way that I can't even begin to describe. The tears have not stopped.

But this post is not about me. 

It is for Tabatha. 

She was one of us. 

She was here and she is here now in spirit.  When I asked Jack if I could share Tabatha with you he replied ...

Dear Kim,

Thank you so very much for your kind words. Tabatha was my life, my love and my happiness and even though my life will never be the same, I will get my strength from her to go on. She battled this old cancer for two years, but she never gave up the fight. The doctors allowed me to bring her home last Thursday where she wanted to be. I was with her Saturday morning when she left us and she left in peace. Kim I have comfort in knowing that she is in a better place and no longer in pain. I have attached a picture of her for you to use as you wish. It would be such an honor to her knowing that you were willing to share her life on your blog. I feel closest to her when I listen to your music playlist. Thank you again Kim for touching her life in a special way.

 

God bless you,

Jack

Tabatha Marshall Benke 

12-02-1967

1-23-2010

God Bless You Tabatha.

We will all miss you and keep you in our hearts FOREVER.

The song on this blog now plays in honor of and FOR YOU too.

Love always,

Kim

Comments

[[email protected] FOREVER VINTAGE]

How wonderful to know that our blogging lifts peoples spirits during some of the toughest times in their lives.. She was a beautiful woman and what a shame that she died of such a young age. You must be honored to hear such kind words.

[laurie]

Oh, I am crying. What a touching and wonderful letter for her husband to write to you. How kind of him to take the time to email you, and how wonderful that your blog meant so much to her. Thank you for sharing this. laurie

[Staci Danford]

What an incredible message to how your wonderful BLOg touches people. I too many times never write, but visit often to feel your happiness over the computer screen. As I read Jack's words the tears just rolled down my face. What a precious story. Thank you for sharing a little of her with us too. Blessings and peace to him as he trys to move on.
Staci

[Karen]

Kim, your blog touches so many of us with its music and your eye for the beauty in the everyday. Jack, if you're reading this, my prayers are with you. Tabatha has touched many of our hearts today.

Karen

[Danielle]

I really don't have any words, other than to say my heart goes out to Jack and Tabatha and thank you, Kim, for doing what you do each day.

[mia]

Oh dear. I'm not sure what to say, but felt so compelled to just, I don't know, put my hand up and say, yes, I feel it too. I can't imagine such an unbearable loss. Still, there is so much beauty in the world, and in his words about her. Thanks for sharing.

[karen cox]

Oh Kim,

How amazing is this? Yet, isn't this why we all blog, to connect, lose ourselves a while, find support and kind words. To feel the comfy cozy feeling that a blog like yours creates. Let's hope dear Kim, that she is up in heaven in a Dear Daisy Cottage of her own looking down and blessing your life, as you did hers.
Karen

[Diane]

Thank you for sharing these moving letters about, as you say, one of us. We never know how we touch other people. Your blog is an inspiration and a beautiful place to go, it's so nice that she felt that way too and drew so much from it. God bless you, Tabatha and Jack. Diane

[Joy ...Northwest Indiana]

Oh My Goodness, I'm reading thru tears as I listen to your music ,Kim, and Tabatha's music. Jack, you have spread Tabatha's memory to the world via this wonderful blog. Yes, you have certainly touched our hearts today. Bless you!!
Joy (Indiana)

[kathi]

Thanks Kim. Such a sweet story about a truly amazing man and the woman he loved. Your blog touches the hearts of many, including me. Prayers sent to Jack in this time of sadness. May your music bring peaceful thoughts and memories to him.

[Jenny]

Thank you Kim for sharing this with us. It is amazing how something one of us may write has the power to help someone we never meet. God Bless Tabatha and Jack and you Miss Kim!

[Kathleen Grace]

Oh my. We never know who we will touch when we put ourselves out there do we? My deepest condolences to Jack in the loss of his beautiful wife.

[Comeca Jones]

I am sad at the thought of this.Youre right it could be any of us. This page has brought all of us comfort Kim ,lonely nights,dateless weekends,and sad days.Myself as well as many others get peace from Maggie the dog and the bright red and yellows of the Daisy Cottage.My prayers are with Tabathas husband and blessings to you for making an impact.(My grannie says we should give flowers while we live)Take your dozen Bright red Roses Kim.Im sure Tabatha is joy filled at this last post.

[Jane]

Oh, Kim...I don't even think I can type. How sweet of you to share this and how sweet and strong Jack Benke is. I never knew Tabatha and I am crying... My condolences go out to Jack and all of Tabatha's friend and family. Kim...you are a darling and mean so much to so many people. Thank you for being you.

xoxo
Janie

[Rachel from A Cupcake for Moose]

My heart and prayers go out to Jack. What a touching story and one I am very glad you shared. Tabatha was a beautiful woman and I'm sure she has touched the hearts of many just as you, Kim, have touched all of our hearts. xoxo

[Joni]

Kim, that has to be one of the sweetest stories. Tabatha was a beautiful lady and a beautiful soul and it must be so rewarding to know that you made a difference in the life of someone you'd never met. My sympathies to Jack and his family and I hope you keep in touch.......
XOXO
Joni

[Kimberly C.]

Oh wow.

The thought that comes to mind is one of being ever present in our lives. Be who you were meant to be, 100% - because you don't know who you will touch.

I hope that makes sense.

[Vee]

Reading this earlier was so overwhelming that I walked away. Such a loss! Jack was a dear to let you know and what a wonderful gift Tabatha left with you via his words. My sincere sympathies to Tabatha's family and may they know the comfort of the Lord Himself through this time of grieving.

[Sheri and Sophee~a]

That is the one of the most touching stories that I have read on your blog.

When a person dies at such a young age....loved ones are left to carry on and hearts are broken. We ask ourselves...WHY?

I know.....my children's father passed away 3 days before Christmas( just over 1 month ago). He was 40 years old. He was my high school sweet~heart,my first love and the father of my WONDERFUL children.

Although we have been divorced for over 10 years....and I am happily remarried. ~My heart broke~. Not only for the terrible loss that my children at 21 & 18 had to endure.....but for me as well. All those memories come flooding back.

Old wounds are forgiven.....and only love remains.

Thanks for sharing this story.......and Thank you Jack, for sharing the story of your beautiful wife. May you be comforted in the fact that she is free from pain and smiling down at you. Looking over your shoulder and enjoying Kim's blog still.

Sheri~www.pawshpoodle.blogspot.com

[momstheword]

What a beautiful woman, and what a sad but beautiful story. I love how much she desired to make a loving home for herself and her husband, and how she used your blog to inspire her and uplift her spirits. Beauty does that.

My prayers and condolences go out to her family and thank you, Jack, for letting us "know" her if only for a brief moment.

[Jeanette]

She was so beautiful. I am trying to see the screen but for the tears, it's not happening. I am so sorry her life on earth was so short. It was such a beautiful, beautiful relationship she had with her husband also. He obviously loves her very much. Kim, your sweet blog has been a stopping place for many folks, myself included. We find a kind welcoming atmosphere here. Thank you for that, and than you for dedicating a post to this beautiful person and reaching out with a loving and caring heart.

Sweet Jeanette

[Adrienne]

Thank you, Jack, for sharing Tabatha's story with Kim. What an inspiration. She was gorgeous! And I can tell she was a truly beautiful person. I'm so sorry for your loss but I know the peace you feel to know she's no longer suffering. Your words are a challenge to me to always have my blog be something that can touch hearts of those who read.

Kim, you don't know how this has touched my heart. Thank you for introducing us to this beautiful, sweet lady and for being there to touch our lives every time we stop by.
~Adrienne~

[Lauree]

For Jack,
Thank you for sharing about your beautiful wife. I can't imagine the pain your heart must feel right now - but please know we'll be praying for you. May you know comfort and peace and may the memories of your beloved be a sweet balm to your soul.
So so sorry for your loss.

[Amanda]

So very beautiful! God Bless Tabatha and Jack. ~Mandy (Thank you for sharing this, Kim.)

[Nancy Jane York]

Oh my this is just so profound. You never know how you touch people do you Kim and here this beautiful letter comes in with this heart wrenching story. There are so many good people out there and you are one of them Kim to have touched people in this way. My heart really goes out to Jack loosing his wife who was so young.

[Deborah]

I cannot even imagine how you must have felt upon receiving Jack's message. Amazing how words, music and a kind heart can touch others. May Jack get comfort from your lovely place just as his beautiful Tabatha did.

Deborah in NC

[Eugenia]

Cancer is such a thief. Who among us doesn't ache with the knowledge and pain of the loss of another beautiful being. Bloggyland is indeed a community of strength and compassion.

God bless Jack, Tabatha and their families. Thank you Kim for being who you are and sharing yourself.

[theannadventures.blogspot.com]

Kim,

What a wonderful honor for you! All I can say is WOW! Your blog obviously means a lot to many of us and for the most part, you may never know just how much. God bless Tabatha and her husband too for writing you. It is amazing to think how we really touch each other's lives, isn't it? Your blog is really wonderful and you truly have a gift and YOU are a gift.

God bless you Kim. I will light a candle in honor of Tabatha tonight.

Ann

[Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home]

My heart is with Jack as the tears pour down my face. Bless him for being such a strong wonderful husband.
xo
Penny

[Beckie]

I don't think that I will ever complain about a blogger's music again! Often, their music is not my taste. If only one person reading is blessed by the music as Tabatha was, then it is worth it. Condolences to Jack.

[rue]

Jack... I am so sorry. I can't imagine how hard it was to lose your beautiful wife. My heart goes out to you. Many many hugs for you.

Kim, this is exactly why you're here.... to bring us happiness in a world full of sadness. Your sweet blog gives every single one of us joy. I'm so glad that Tabatha found you and that it gave her comfort.

God Bless you and Jack.

love you sweet friend,
rue

[cindy h]

Oh Jack..my prayers are with you and yours ..thank you for sharing such a beautiful story about your beautiful wife who is now a part of our lives also. Yes..Kim does give all of us a "warm fuzzy space" to escape..Thank you Kim.
((Hugs and xxx))
Cindy H

[Cindy]

Kim,
It was hard to read your post through my tears. First, I want to say that my thoughts and prayers are with Jack as he goes through this difficult time. And I thank him for sharing this with you...it shows us that we do touch others even though we may never know that we did. It has so touched my heart that Jack shared Tabatha's story with you and then us.
hugs,
Cindy

[Mary Bernhagen]

Tabatha and Jack must share a special love between them. Death can not part them for love is eternal...and so are we. May God bless them both.

[Esther Sunday]

Thank you, Jack, for sharing Tabatha with us. After reading this, I know for sure that I will forever think of her upon hearing the special Daisy Cottage music during my daily click in. Perhaps in that way it will help Tabatha remain present with the Daisy Cottage family. We love you, Jack!

Kim, although I may never actually meet you in the flesh or even hear your voice, please know that I love you!

[Charm]

You never know how many lives you touch in sharing of yourself through the dailyness of your own life. Thank you for sharing Jack Benke's correspondence on your site and giving his much-loved Tabatha a beautiful memorial tribute.

Jack: My deepest condolences to you and your family. May God strengthen & comfort you and yours in the days ahead.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 NIV

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 NIV

[Elaine L.]

Your post is a beautiful Memorial to Tabatha. The blogging community is an amazing connection.

God Bless Jack and his beautiful Tabatha.

~elaine~

[Gail]

Thanks for sharing that!
It is the reason I return over and over... Kim your home is just a nice place to be. Thanks for welcoming us into it. We love it and we love you. And thank you Jack for sharing Tabatha with us. We'll just imagine her here in the garden at Daisy Cottage enjoying some restful lazy momemts with Miss Maggie on her lap, a good book, and some tea and sweets.
(REV. 21: 3, 4)

[The Lady of the House]

My prayers are with you and your family Mr. Benke. Just looking at the picture of your wife there was a gentle peacefullness about your wife, what a beautiful gal. I'm so thankful she was able to find comfort here at the Daisy Cottage. I'm also thankful that now, you can find joy in this sweet blog. I too, LOVE! Kim's music and her words here are lovely - every day - I know I can count on it. Beautiful pictures and lovely words. Rest in Peace dear Tabitha... Sincerely, The Lady of the House

[Vicki]

Kindness is so special when it done for sheer kindness,not because you should,or it is your job!
That is why this is the Dear Daisy Cottage,a cottage that glows with kindness,love and friendship!

[Andi]

Oh my. Kim, you must be feeling 1,000 times more than I am at the moment and my feelings are overwhelming. I can't put into words what these two messages have made me feel. We never know what may be going on in the lives of our visitors, but how wonderful that we are able to share love with people we would never have known if the internet were not here. Jack, your messages have touched us all and Tabatha will be remembered for a very long time by people who once never knew her. God Bless. xx

[Fifi]

Dearest Kim,
Why am I not surprised? If someone could bring love, comfort and inspiration to anyone it would have to be you. You are my "sunshine" and the sunshine of so many of us. How lovely to know that your natural gift helped Tabetha and Jack through their difficult journey. If we ever doubt the usefulness of blogs this is the affirmation of their power. The purpose is to share. And, you, dear Kim, do it better than anyone.
xoxoxoxo
fifi

[Ashling]

That brought me to tears, such a lovely gesture. Such a pretty lady. She will be looking down on us all from heaven.

All things nice...

[marina mott]

I'm really sad and I fell like I can't talk about it in this moment...I lost my sister (she was 48) in january 3 (this year) after one year and a half fighting with cancer too and I know the pain. I want with all my heart and soul that Jack get better and I know you will Jack! (sorry about my poor english...) Hugs

[[email protected]]

How wonderful that Jack shared this with you Kim. How wonderful that she had this place to come and fell some peace. Thank you both for this reminder to love with all of our hearts and to appreciate each day we have.

[Claudia]

This is such a moving post, Kim. I thank Jack for sharing Tabatha's story and hope he finds some measure of peace in his time of loss. Your blog is a place of peace and beauty that many visit every day, Kim. We reach out to each other through this blogging world, make connections and hopefully, make a difference in each others' lives.

xo
Claudia

[Suzanne]

I know this cancer very well---And during my chemotherapy last summer, I, too, visited Dear Daisy Cottage every day.
My heart is with you, Jack, if you are reading this, and if this can bring to you some peace, I will tell you that 4 years ago my mother unexpectedly passed away at a very early age.
While I have never taken dreams seriously other than just dreams, shortly after my mother's passing, she came to me in a dream and told me that she was very happy.
I told her, "But I miss you so much," yet she replied, "But the happiness I feel is so wonderful, and it feels like this..."
She took her hand and placed it on my heart. The warmth and love that came over me was so overwhelming that it woke me from my sleep.
I knew after that--No doubt in my very analytical mind--That her spirit soars happily.
Life does indeed go on--And your beloved Tabatha is truly soaring happily as well.
Take comfort in this.

[Linda Evans]

Dear Kim....I understand how Jack feels about your blog...I too was just visting blogs when I happened upon Dear Daisy Cottage...well first the music caught my heart, reminds me of such a happy time when I was a child, it was my mom's music(she is gone now)...so that alone brings tears of happiness and sadness...and your delightful pictures and words....well, I LOVE it and visit at least once a day...Thank you Kim for sharing Jack's letter and to you too for your blog......smiles and hugs, Linda

[Wendy]

So touching...so lovely...so heart-breaking and heart-warming at the same time. I can understand the appeal of the music. I usually leave the "window" open after I visit your blog, so I can keep listening while I do other things. It's your very own ministry and you may not have even known it.
Thanks Kim, for sharing this story and giving Tabatha her own post. She was a beautiful lady and it's clear that Jack misses her terribly. I will pray for strength and healing for him.
WendyBee

[beth gales]

Wow--makes me sit back and count my blessings. How nice of this man to share with others even with his own pain.

[Vicki]

Kim~ What a wonderful story for all of us to read. I "blundered" upon your site just a few days ago and was telling a good friend about it. Thank You for the lovely music and the story about Jack and his wife. It shows me once again that we should count our blessings even more and live life to the fullest. I read this and had a hand on my heart and tears streaming. Bless Jack and that he will have help through this...God bless him and Tabatha...

[Lori]

So sorry, Jack, for your loss of your beautiful Tabatha. I am a colon cancer survivor, diagnosed at age 48. Whenever I hear of another persons struggles with this horrible disease, it tears my Heart a little more each time. I am not sure why I was spared but I am making the most of my life. I will pray for you to carry on without your beautiful wife. Good luck to you and thanks for sharing your pain.

[Doris Barile]

What a beautiful love they shared and are still sharing with us. Doris

[Sandy]

Oh my, we never know how many lives we touch every day, do we? Makes it all the more important HOW we live our lives and to always be aware that someone is watching us. We may never know this side of heaven just our far our influence reaches. May God's peace flood this family over the coming days, weeks, months and years.

[Tracey]

The story brought joy along with tears. I'm so glad we all have your sweet blog to connect us. People need each other. And somehow it's easy to connect with one another through you, Kim. Thank you for sharing Tabitha's story.

[Sheri Howard]

Thank you for sharing this story, everything that could be said has been said more beautifully than I could say, but I just wanted to say "thank you." ~~Sheri

[cindy]

What a heartwarming story. Peace be with Jack with the passing of his beloved Tabatha. Thank you for sharing their story. I have been reading your blog for quite some time, you are an inspiration and you touch alot of people lives without evening knowing it.

[Debra]

What a wonderful thing that Jack had the strength to reach out at this difficult time and touch all of our hearts with his lovely sentiments about his wife, her love of your inspiring blog and their enjoyment of a summer place. Hopefully Tabatha resides in a summer place forever now and is wishing that Jack carries on and knows that all of us women out here in the blog world are thinking about him and sending him our love and condolences.

[Nina]

Last year my daughter's girlfriend lost her mommy. She was only 43 years old. In October 2008 she told me she had cancer and she died in March 2009. It was a very sad time.
And when I read the story of Tabatha I hope that her husband will find some comfort in all our comments.
I wish him strength and hope for now and in the future.
Nina

[Daisy Cottage]

Good Morning Everyone.

Each and EVERY one of you are providing strength, comfort, and love for Jack and his precious Tabatha with your comments.

And I can't thank you enough. We are all in this together.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Love,
Me

[joycee]

You never know whose lives you touch as we blog along. Some days saying little but saying much. The music on blogs is important I think. It's a way that we connect over the internet, our hearts know when we look inside a blog the kind of person that sits and writes their deepest thoughts, sharing and just being a friend. No strings attached, just a friend. God bless Tabatha's family and you Kim for being there, without even knowing.

[Stephanie @ La Dolce Vita]

so so sorry for this terrible loss! We'll think of this lovely couple whenever we hear this beautiful music, and say a prayer for them!

[Michele]

Absolutely bawling m y eyes out.

On my way to church and will pray for sweet Tabatha. God keep her in his care for always.

Oh Kim, it really IS how we all feel about your blog. It is like a daily prayer to many of us, in many ways.

God bless.

[Mermaid Debbie]

Oh, beautiful Tabatha. Thank you Kim and Tabatha's loving husband for sharing this story. It is a beautiful, bitter-sweet example of the kindness of others... the connectedness we all share even when we have never met in person. I am sending prayers of comfort to Tabatha's husband and family. Kim, your "inspiration" continues to "inspire" others and in my opionion there is no greater way to honor the gifts God gave each of us than to use them. I thank him for yours!

[Brenda Kula]

Oh Kim, how truly special that he shared this! So young to have life end. When are they going to find out more about saving these cancer victims, I wonder? This has to be an inspiration to you to keep doing what you do so well. Cheering people's hearts when they visit with your delicious and spirited colors. And your welcoming them into your world. I am hugging you here from Texas.
xoxo, Brenda

[Dena]

Kim, you are a light in a world that is often drenched in darkness. God has gifted you with an amazing ability to comfort and this medium of blogging has become an outlet that is truly tangible for all those who find it. I am so glad that Tabatha did.

Jack,

Thank you for reaching out to Kim and sharing Tabatha's journey with us. I pray that God will hold you in his arms and provide you with peace, strength and comfort.

Much love,
Dena

[Renie Cee]

Dear Kim,
We never know as we go through our daily lives when we will touch someone and make their lives a little easier. You do that with your daily blog for me and others, whether it be with your wonderful dog or your sweet and caring thoughts you post. Keep up the good work girlfriend! Now I am going to have to stop because my eyes are filled with tears.
XOXOXO

[[email protected]]

What a touching post. I'm so sorry for your loss Jack. Tabatha looked like a beautiful woman and from the way you describe her she was. Too young. KIm you should feel honoured that you have made a difference in someones life. It is such a big world out there and I'm sure you are not even aware the impact you make on others... Sherri : )

[Debbie]

I am am crying - for Jack, for Tabatha and for the fact that we can touch lives we don't even know we touch. God bless you Kim - even though I don't know you, I can tell you have a heart of gold. It was shared with a very special woman - prayers for comfort and peace for Jack.

[Betty Jo]

Jack I'm soooooo very sorry for your loss. Your Tabitha is so very beautiful. Like you, I'm so glad she is no longer in pain. I do understand your own pain as I lost my husband, the love of my life, not so very long ago.

Kim you are a rare light in this world. Bless you dear friend. ♥

[Susan]

Kim,
Such a bitter sweet story...brought tears to my eyes. God Bless Tabatha and Jack. I'm so glad he shared Tabatha's story and photo, she is just lovely. I greatly admire his strength as I know this has to be such a difficult time. Bless you Kim for making our world a better place each time we visit.
XOXO
Susan

[Donna at Mourning Dove Cottage]

How sad. My heart is crying.

[Jack Benke]

Thanks to all for honoring my beautiful Tabatha with your kind words. You have warmed my heart. Kim, you and Dear Daisy Cottage will always have a special place in my heart. Thanks so much for everything you do, Love Jack

[Leah]

I'm sorry for your loss Jack,that's a beautiful picture of her. I know she will be greatly missed and remembered. Thank you for dedicating a post to Tabatha Kim, youre a sweetheart.

[Dawne]

My dear Kim,

I visit often but rarely comment. Today I just had to say something. Did you ever think when you started this blog that it would so profoundly and deeply touch others lives? I know it has mine. And obviously it touched this beautiful lady, Tabatha. I understand the pleasure this blog would bring to her, I'm so glad she found it and you Kim...your warmth does make one feel like part of the family, I'm glad this became a spot of happiness and joy for Tabatha. It does me too. My heart and prayers go out to her Jack as he goes through the days ahead of him.
May God keep him and hold him. And God be with you Kim as you inspire and bring a simple, yet profound, pleasure into others lives.

[Pat]

Well, it's difficult to type with the tears that are falling. What an incredibly gorgeous young lady! I can only imagine how you must feel with Jack sharing such a meaningful story. It is such an honor from him to you ~

May God bless you, Jack, and bring peace to your heart. She is truly out of pain and in a beautiful place. Sending you calming, healing energy ~

xoxo

[Kimberly Padilla]

Jack, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. What a sad thing! I am glad to hear that you will continue to have comfort in Kim's blog, as we all do here. Kim, thank you for sharing the story with us. How touching! I can see why the tears continue to flow. Truly it is an honor that Tabatha was able to find comfort in your blog while she was still on this earth.

[Kimberly Padilla]

Oh and she was absolutely beautiful!!!

[Sue]

Kim, I know how touched you are by knowing you helped Tabatha in her courageous fight with cancer. Her husband is such a special person to let you know how much you inspired her. I could hardly get through his letter to you and I'm still sobbing. I found it so moving that Jack had your soundtrack played at Tabatha's service. Thank you for sharing this moving story with us.

[Mary Ann]

God bless you Jack.

[Pattie]

What sweet words, through my tears I say a prayer for Tabatha, although she is in a peaceful place and not suffering any more.. We still ask why? I guess we will all know when it comes our turn. My thoughts and prayer also go out to Jack it not easy when you lose the one you love so deeply I am truly sorry, My prayer go out to you as well. Thank you Kim for sharing this with all of us.. I also want to let you know that my daughter is in a wheelchair she has CP she always wants to listen to you play list she says that it makes her feel HAPPY... you touch all of us...

[Jan]

There are so many wonderful posts here, that I cannot say anymore or better what we all felt after reading about Tabitha. Kim, thank you for posting this. Sad and touching and now I'm going to call my daughter ~ just because.

[Jennifer D]

I have no words... my heart hurts...really bad. You are a blessing Kim.

[Sheila]

God bless Jack Benke and help him during what is probably the strangest and toughest days of his life. What a pleasure to see such love and respect from a husband to a wife. I totally agree with him that Tabatha is enjoying her new life without pain and suffering...only good things! I admire Jack for his plan to continue on and live his life even though it must be very different from what he and Tabatha had planned.

So very glad Kim at Daisy Cottage offered a happy place for Tabatha to go to. "Yay" for technology being used in a very human way!

[Katherine]

We never know fully how our actions and deeds can help others. Kim, you bring joy to many and we all love you for doing so. My thoughts and prayers go out to Tabitha's family. Jack, you are a a truly amazing man. May God Bless You Always.

[Mary Lou]

The story of Tabatha and Jack has been written for us. We would've chosen and different ending for you Jack. As a cancer survivor, my heart is so touched by you. When you see Tabatha again, tell her thank you from all of us.

[[email protected]]

Wow! I am crying for sure. Isn't it amazing the readers we touch when we don't even know we are touching them? This is the best post I have ever seen. Kim, thanks to you and many other bloggers who share life, humor and love daily. It touches all of our hearts ... everyday.
Jack, if you read this... please know all of us bloggers are praying for you and your sweet Tabatha! May God Bless you - thank you for sharing her with us.. we are all much richer today.

[B]

I light a candle and sit inside my warm cozy house with the snow piled up outside the door...As I am curled up in my wingback chair, eyes closed, listening to your music, I think of how Tabitha and you and I are sisters in this world...even if never we meet in person. We have a bond and you've brough us all together here in this moment.

[Julie]

That is so sad and I know my heart is with her family!

[Andrea @ Big Creek Cottage]

I will think of this lovely Tabitha on my daily visits here...Jack my thoughts are with you and your family.

[Bella StyleBook]

I share a tear for Tabatha and I share a smile for you Kim. What a wonderful letter to receive for your blog, Kim.

Thanks for sharing.

[Janet K..]

Dear Miss Kim, this is an example of how we never know the troubles and heartache someone may be going through and the difference we can play in someone's life without knowing. May Jack find solace in knowing his beautiful wife is in a better place and I pray she will rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon her. Thanks Kim for helping us find a bright place outside ourselves and for reminding us we are all in this together. HTH Janet

[Elisa Guthrie]

I know how she feels, I have to get on here everyday to look at your blog. I love everything about it.I can see how it gave her peace. The pictures you share, the stories and the music. I enjoy it so much. You inspire me in things that you do on this blog. Even though we have never met I think of you as a friend, because everyday I get on your blog and feel like I know you. That you are talking to me and telling me about your day.

[Bella Dreams]

Oh my goodness. I usually just read your blog every day and never comment but I just had to send my thoughts of peace and healing to this beautiful young womans husband. I think, Kim, that you just received the greatest compliment in the world. To know that you touched someone in this way is amazing and wonderful. Keep up the wonderful and inspiring posts!

[Rhondi]

That is so precious. It made me cry!

[Jennifer]

I know too, Kim, that if I was Tabitha I would do the same exact thing.. seek your blog out for comfort. I do it all the time when I'm well! You have a true gift and I am lucky to have found you!

xoxoxoo Jen in Boise

[Karen]

Oh my... there really are no words after reading that. I am so sad for that family. What an honor for you to have made such an impact in Tabatha's life. I am sure you feel blessed by that. If only each and every one of us could do the same in just one person's life, imagine the feeling.

[Terri Christian]

It's true, your blog is a wonderful place.

[[email protected]]

Dearest Kim,
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. Thank you Jack for allowing Kim to share your story of Tabitha's journey. May God give you the strengh, peace and faith as you travel this difficult journey.

I would like to share my favorite Bible verse that gets me through many difficult times.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart,
And lean not into thy own understanding,
But in all ways ackowledge Him,
And He will direct thy path. Proverbs 3:5-6

Jack, I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts.

Kim has such a sweet spirit and she is an inspiration to us all.

Hugs,
Connie

[Robyn]

Kim, I know EXACTLY how Tabatha felt about you. I found you right after I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Visting your blog was one of the high lights of my day too. (and still is) Rest in peace Tabatha...and to her husband- stay strong, you will see her again my friend!