Aunt Patricia
We all have acquaintance with grief at some level. It is never over; it just continues to add layers to daily life. My Aunt Patricia made it safely home to heaven this week. While I will miss her all the rest of my life, I rejoice that she is whole again and in her forever…
My Friend Bill
What feels like a long time ago – and it was – we moved to Scottsdale and joined in ministry with a family of believers known as First Baptist Church of Scottsdale. We were privileged to know, befriend and love many new people, some for a season and others for a lifetime. Some we led…
The Empty Seat
Today I was startled by another person who has gone ahead to heaven; that is number 6 in as many days. Why does it feel like more people die at the holidays?! I know that it probably not true, but perhaps it just feels even more difficult because of the season. For many, me included,…
Seventy Years Ago
Today I celebrate the person God created with me in mind before the world was even made . Humbly I thank Him for loving me that much when Jim was made. “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever…
Fifteen yrs ago – the Last Time –
They say that a person is not really gone until no one remembers them any longer; when someone leaves earth some part of them remains and their memory is left behind for their loved ones to hold on to. (Think Pixar’s Coco). I have worked hard to remember Jim and keep his memory alive so…
Route 66
Sixty-six. I do not feel this old but I guess most people wonder incredulously at the passage of time. Most days I do not feel like I am in the last third (or quarter) of my life but statistics would confirm that reality. Additionally, I believe that the older you are, the more important it…
Thirty Three is Overwhelming
Dear Emily, When I turned 33 you were one week old. Now you are 33 and in one week I will be twice your age! When I was 33 I was overwhelmed at the prospect of being a mom. I am still overwhelmed, but not with worry or anxiety, nor with sleep deprivation or with…
Sapphire Anniversary #45 – Mohlers est. 1980
Sapphire Memories – It has been 45 trips around the Sun since we pledged our love before God and it wasn’t long enough. Sometimes the days fly by. The last anniversary with Jim was 15 years ago. It has been a long time and occasionally the loneliness is unbearable. Grief is so isolating. I still…
When you wrote your name of my heart!
So I did a thing. Not a big deal and I am even unsure if I will keep this post up telling about it. There are so many opinions about this topic and I do not want to be part of the conversation about whether or not it is “okay” or not. Backing up, I…
My Coda
In music a coda is the satisfying elaboration at the end of a piece of music that offers a sense of resolution. If I got the chance to have a final word, I am not sure I would have the wherewithal to come up with all the right words in the moment. But I am…