Ryan. You were a spitfire from birth.  You had us all holding our breath when you'd whirling-dervish your way into a room.  You had a smile and a head-full of angelic curls that could light up any gloomy day.    You were the first new baby in our family.  The first grandson. My first nephew. A very wanted child.    You and I. We spent many a day together over the first five years of your life. We had park dates and adventures. We played and danced to Bon Jovi.  And, you grew, both in maturity and stature. You gained a self-control that amazed me. You were a friend to your sister and a helper to your family. You were kind and thoughtful and quiet and unassuming.  We had you in our lives for 18 years.  Such a short time for such a loved young man.  I can't wrap my mind around the truth of it. The truth that you aren't here with us anymore. The truth that I won't hear that "hello" when I call or see you ...

Day 29 - Life      

Today, I'm thankful for each new day I'm given to share this life with my family and friends.  I was feeling quite sorry for myself today, and then I found out that a sweet friend of mine from our days in Houston, who was put on life support yesterday and is now in a medically-induced coma, is not expected to make it. I do not grieve for her, though, because I know where she is going. She knows and loves Jesus. She will be held in the arms of her Savior, and for that, I am very, very thankful. I do, however, grieve for her loved ones.  I am so heartbroken for her family. I was blessed to teach one of her granddaughters several years ago, and I became friends with her daughter that year. They have a very close-knit family, and I know they are all grieving deeply.  Thank you, Lord, for my friend, Cheryl, and her life well-lived and for the chance to know her even for a little while. If it is your will that she leave this earth far too soon, it seems, then I humbly ask that ...