Arnold and Bob in the bodybuilding

Photo Credit: Paul Buceta

At the heart of the toughest days of our family we have gathered en masse to celebrate the man we love so much. My invitation to the family members closest to Bob were "Please make your availability Easter Weekend to make memories with those you love." Bob was home from the hospital so he can be loved, cherished, fondled, kissed and caressed as he rightly deserved. My children thought I was crazy to put that on myself when there were already so many things to worry about regarding Bob. But I figured that I needed my family and that each had the right to give this wonderful nugget Bob love right now. Thus, preparations began in earnest. Twenty-six had spent four days with us. It was crazy, but what a mess he was happy. I invited long friend of the family time and the photographer Paul Buceta to come and record the events on Sunday afternoon so we can preserve our memory-making. Everything was set.
Then something magical happened. In the midst of the excitement, I received a call from the office of Arnold Schwarzenegger as the great man wanted to go and personally pay a visit to Bob. I knew it would be a historic moment. Two great men in the sport of bodybuilding and would come into the public arena together. And it happened. On Sunday afternoon April 8, 2012 Arnold arrived at our house with his muscles and a heart of gold. I really could't believe what was happening here in our home with family or both, but it was.
When I answered the door to welcome him in, he said, "Hmmm, what is it? Your new Easter dress?" And since I relaxed as I opened to accommodate the family and, finally, Bob. It was hard not to shed tears as Arnold gently held Robert's hand and began a conversation that would bring a spark back into the blue eyes of my husband and cement their friendship forever. The two laughed about training, women, butts (both seem to love that part of the body), businesses, the challenges of the journal, paint and Austria. The two men have much in common. It did my heart good to see this exchange. Arnold made his promise to visit his old friend, something I am always thankful for and I will never forget.
Arnold also gave the family a thrill when he wandered into the kitchen and had wine and cheese with the gang. Can you believe it? My two nieces and Anika Alissa laughed like crazy when Arnold asked for a photo with both of them. 

Photo Credit: Paul Buceta
So Arnold, thank you and we hope you'll "be back!"
Robert and what memories we have made you and me Nothing I. is less because of you. You made me whole, loved and cherished as I have never experienced before. What joy I carry in my heart for your acquaintance. I love you.

Photo Credit: Paul Buceta