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?
widow
Home Goes With Us
Walking to the mailbox a few months ago, I had an epiphany. "I am not living the dream anymore." I announced it out loud. It was a clarifying, freeing moment as I let myself accept the reality of what my life is now. John and I moved to our home nearly 11 years ago. When … Continue reading Home Goes With Us
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!
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
Love Even Goes Here
As I told you in my last post, it took me two years to decide what to put on John's marker. It wasn't a task to rush through for the sake of "getting it done." I wanted to be completely sure about its appearance and wording. Grave markers aren't something you return. Knowing that I … Continue reading Love Even Goes Here
Welcome in. Again.
Ok. I know. I disobeyed the cardinal rule of blogging: post consistently. I am sorry. You all are so wonderful and supportive that I know you will be quick to say, "it's okay! There's no pressure!" Thank you for that. But, there has actually been a reason. When you're traveling and get close to your … Continue reading Welcome in. Again.
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
Only He Can Do This
Have you ever had a breakfast that almost turned into lunch? It happened to me this week when I met another widow for breakfast. We left the restaurant close to noon. : ) She is decades ahead of me on this journey. Oh how I hope to have the vitality and energy and sparkle she … Continue reading Only He Can Do This
where love takes you 