I lost my father 11 years ago to brain cancer. He was the glue that held our familly together, and after he was gone, my brother, sister and i, drifted apart.
I have reconnected with my brother, over fishing this last summer, and slowly, after many attempts, i have convinced my sister to join us for Christmas this year.
Your thread hit home really hard with me.Last year, i almost lost my mother, the week before Christmas, but miraculously, she was back with us.
This will be the first Christmas that my brother, sister and i will be together under the same roof, since my father passed, so, ya, Familly is the key to happiness for me this year.
Gerritt...Have a wonderful Christmas, and a Happy New Year.
And yes, i believe your son would still let you hug him, and would still love to be around you all the time.
Be well my friend