It is a question I hear often, and every single time my brain gridlocks. The question is asked earnestly. People care. They genuinely want to know how we are doing- each of the kids, our new house, the upcoming holidays, and the status of my grief's healing process. I want to honor their question with … Continue reading Umm, How Are You Doing?
children
Family of Three Becomes Five Again!
We were all smiles as we poured the syrup on our pancakes, then held our glasses high to toast our school year together. We did it! We made it! A whole school year of just the three of us together. I was with my youngest two children (13, 17) as we celebrated at our favorite … Continue reading Family of Three Becomes Five Again!
Three Years: Our Kids’ Perspectives
Arriving at the three year mark has felt different than the previous two years. It has reminded me of the days when our children were babies, and we had to transition from saying they were "weeks old" to "months old" to "years old." Some of you will know what I am talking about. Someone would … Continue reading Three Years: Our Kids’ Perspectives
When Anxiety Tugs
One day last week, we held hands and they prayed for me. My youngest and my oldest and me. A triangle of three. Her hands were delicate, his were strong. They have needed me for years. Last week it was my turn. I simply needed them to pray for me. Because parts of last week … Continue reading When Anxiety Tugs
New Year Jitters
First things first, I hope all of you had a very merry Christmas with family and friends. I was reminded again this year of how much I treasure the gift of Christ more than ever. What would I do without Him? How would I breathe and function in our loss if I didn't have the … Continue reading New Year Jitters
Help Along the Way
Hi there everybody- I hope your to-do lists are getting shorter! I hope to post again before Christmas, but in case I miss you: Merry Christmas! I hope you have a wonderful holiday with your family and friends. No gift given and no gift received can ever top the gift we are celebrating: Jesus Christ! … Continue reading Help Along the Way
Finding Christmas Joy When You’re Afraid It May Be Lost
This is our third Christmas without John. A few weeks ago I was in Walmart and saw all of the Christmas displays and was blindsided by grief. Thankfully, it was early in the morning and the store was vacant. The soap and deodorant aisle bore witness to my tears as I stood there venting to … Continue reading Finding Christmas Joy When You’re Afraid It May Be Lost
A Loss so Big in a Heart so Young
... She Misses Her Momma I just realized. When Dad died, I lost not only a father but also a mother. Mom is an incredible woman and I respect and admire her more and more every day. But she is not the same woman I used to know. She has to pay the bills, fix … Continue reading A Loss so Big in a Heart so Young
where love takes you 