what day is it?

Last few weeks have been a whirlwind--some good, some very hard. I'm going to just pour it all out and then move on. December was already packed, trying to prepare for next year at church, then had a death in the church (a very sweet 89-year-old woman) and a funeral.

Last week Jamie's best friend back home in Washington died of a heart attack. Kimmi was 36, wife and mother of a 3-year-old son. Jamie was devastated. We were fortunate and got a great deal on Priceline to go home for the funeral. It was a hard week, but good. Good to be with Jamie's family, good to help out with Kimmi's family and friends. I spoke at the funeral; just tried to offer some encouragement and comfort. Jamie's dad shared (he was a second dad to Kimmi) and did a beautiful job. Several others shared, including Jamie. She did great.

It has been hard watching Jamie hurt so much and not be able to do much about it. She has been amazing through all this. Brady did great traveling, but while in Washington Jamie got a cold, then passed it on to Brady and me. I'm still feeling pretty weak. I'm a big baby when sick--feel like I can't do much of anything.

We flew home on Christmas day; been tired and sick since. But it is good to be home, and all together (Ashley was at her father's for Christmas). Mom and Jerry came over last night; we ate dinner and opened presents. Today I try to get some work done.

I need to pause and be thankful; there has been a lot of good in the midst of a tough time--I'm amazed at how good Brady was on both flights--never cried, slept well, played, great mood. Everyone around us on the plane fell in love with him...very thankful for Chad and Linde, Jamie's sister and brother-in-law. We stayed with them in Washington. They are wonderful, generous, serving, fun to be with. Hate that they are so far away!...Thankful for Lisa, who took care of everything at church while I was gone...Thankful for a new year, new opportunities for our church to grow and connect with people and continue to make a difference!