LA Times Pressman Bloggers

The funeral for Bryan Padgett was held today. It has been a very long and difficult week, and now begins the long and difficult adjustment for the Padgett family. For as long as I've known Ed, this was the first time I'd met all his children or any of his siblings. It was also the first time I've met some of the contributors to Ed's blog. For my readers who are not familiar with how my blog came about, I am a contributor on Ed's blog, the Los Angeles Times Pressmens Twenty Year Club. We each have our own personality and point of view, which adds the to blog's diversity. I've known Nubia for years, but it was my first time to meet Jesse and Kanani.

Kanani is perhaps one of the most loving, warm women I've ever met. There is a calm, easy-going part of her personality that made me feel at ease immediately. Jesse is also a friendly, warm and supportive person and I enjoyed meeting him, as well. I am honored to be a part of their "family" and look forward to watching our friendships grow. I'm sure we will all be there for the Padgett family in the difficult days ahead.

The events of the past week have reminded me of how important friendships and relationships are in our lives. I value my friends and family because without them, my life would be so empty and unfulfilled. My heart is happy knowing that I have new friends in Kanani and Jesse, as well as the rest of our little family. I thank God for this wonderful gift.

Please continue to pray for the Padgett family, and our troops and their families.