As soon as he got wind Vernon was in the hospital with sepsis, Dave Crossland, Vernon’s old pal and typography colleague (er, partner in crime) bought tickets to fly out from New York to see him. He knew it was serious. As soon as he realized Vernon’s time might be even shorter, he arranged to fly out even sooner. He told me he hoped to catch the “new Vernon” while he could, especially since the past two times he’s come out to visit him, Vernon was asleep (recovering from coma or the first round of sepsis.) Truth be told, I was anxious that he wouldn’t catch Vernon’s window, but he did!
(Chris this of Dave visiting yesterday.)
Dave and his lovely new wife flew out Sunday morning and managed to get a little time with Vernon in the afternoon. Dave brought this Google Fonts poster for his wall—very special as Dave and Vernon were the trailblazers of Google Web Fonts.
When Dave showed the poster to Vernon and pointed out the fonts he’d designed, Vernon said, very businesslike: “Yes, so how will I get paid for that?” No nonsense anymore, this version of Vernon. I got the sense he was trying to take care of his family even from his position. He gets straight to the punch these days. It’s as if he knows there is no time for anything else.
It was a short visit yesterday, but Dave came back again today. They talked shop, which a very sleepy Vernon seemed to enjoy. He definitely knew who Dave was and that they’d worked together. I was so touched that Dave wanted to be with Vernon at many stages in his recovery and also here, at the end. I was so happy they were finally able to connect.
Here they are, watching a video of the both of them talking about free-ing fonts in Istanbul four years ago.
On another note, here is a funny story from earlier:
I was feeding Vernon chocolate ice cream (all he eats.) He was being so sweet. I said something like: “You are so full of love.”
“I am full of love,” he agreed.
After a pause:
“I am full of ice cream too.”
176
So beautiful.
I see this book already.
Better than “Eat Pray Love” …*sigh* I hate this chapter- but I know that God is graced you and Vernon in beautiful light. I am so grateful to read this daily update.
Beautiful entry today sweetheart. Please tell Vernon I said thank you for you over the last 2 years especially. For him, for his lovely, witty, dashing, very British self.
Love him having ice cream. Chocolate?
yes, chocolate. nothing but. 🙂
Allison,
So good for Vernon to have a fried come out to visit. They must be close friends. Still praying that God will give a safe journey home. God be with you and stand beside you during these last few days with Vernon.
God bless you and the children.
Hugs,
Becky
Oh my gosh! I’m laughing and crying and just a mess. All for the love of this dear family! Love you Adam’s!!!
YES, CHOCOLATE AND ICE CREAM and FELLOWSHIP WITH FRIENDS and an Incredible wife!! Vernon is a Blessed man!! Love and Prayers… Knowing you, the way you share, the way you Love, the way Vernon Loves – makes me reach for more in the ordinary, it makes me look for the Good and it makes me a kinder, gentler person – 💜
I know you did not “sign up” for this ….You genuine Love for each other, life and humanity spills over into ALL who stop to look, listen and see – nothing is wasted – it will ALL be for Good –
I love what Jessica wrote. I love that you share videos. I’m always drawn to Vernon’s eyes. His mind seems to be racing.
Vernon’s full of ice cream comment gave me quite a chuckle. Since I only know Vernon through your posts, I really appreciate the before videos. He is such a special man. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Sweetness beyond words…”Eat Pray Love Live”…
Thank you, Allison, for sharing your insights with us. I’m learning much from your reflections.
Dave is a great friend to Vernon, and it is always so nice to have him, and now his wife visit San Clemente. I just took a peek at the new fonts.google.com and I have to say the site is so nice! I love the bio listed for Vernon, it really honors him and his work. <3 For anyone who would like to read it, it is on the sidebar in any page for a Vernon Adams font, like so: https://fonts.google.com/specimen/Amatic+SC?selection.family=Amatic+SC&query=amatic
Allison, saw this poem and thought of you and Vernon. You are very lucky to have such a wonderful soul mate. Frankly, most people in their lives here on earth do not have this and are constantly searching for it. As a result they are discontented and miserable which you and Vernon never experienced. I admire yours and Vernon’s courage and determination. Both of you including the kids are heroes in my book.
Lori Daoust
Published on April 2012
You were sick and tired and we all knew,
that God would soon come to take you.
You fought so hard, so very long,
but through the pain, you stayed strong.
We all knew there would come a day,
when God would come to carry you away.
It doesn’t make it easier to say goodbye,
and I try so hard not to cry.
I can’t help but feel defeated,
or even maybe a little cheated.
But how very selfish would I be,
to hope and pray you could stay with me.
So as you laid there tubes running to and fro,
I had to tell you “It’s ok to go”.
Say “Hi” to loved ones waiting on the other side.
I know some day; you’ll be there when I take that ride.
Source: http://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/its-ok-to-go #FamilyFriendPoems