Shining through the Sorrow

To the outsider, to someone who simply doesn't "get it" - it may seem like I'm constantly doing things to honor the son that I had to bury.  Which doesn't necessarily sound like a bad thing, except that I've been accused of "celebrating death more than life," of doing more for a son who is no longer here than for the two children I am blessed to still have with me. I know I shouldn't care.  I know I don't need to defend myself.  But, here goes.  Explanation. Out of the 365 days a year, there are a few significant dates when it comes to Gabriel.  Most are sad, but one is a celebration - the day of his "angelversary," meaning the day he took his first and last breath - August 21st .  On this day, we welcome anyone to join us at his grave site to remember him.  Each year, we've been surrounded by lots of friends, and a few family members.  And every year I notice who is NOT there more than I notice who is. Another Gabriel dat

Sometimes I forget that I have blog readers who aren't necessarily my Facebook friend, or even real life friend.  So, forgive me that this post is a little late.  Saturday October 13th was our 3rd annual Gabriel Walk & 5K.  It was our most successful year, yet!  We had more sponsors this year than in the past, and we also held a successful Open House to raise additional funds. So, if you helped us out in anyway, now is the time to take your pat on the back - THANK YOU.  Building Gabriel's Fund is the way our family has chosen to have his name and legacy live on - so that teens in our area can hear about the love of our precious Jesus.  Without your help, none of this is possible.  So, thank you. Enjoy these pictures a dear friend of mine, Brandie Brown, took of the event: My family, remembering our Gabriel always. My sister next to me, surrounded by dear friends - My support! Each angel was given a mum and name marker for the participants to remember th

So, not to brag or anything, but God has been talking to me a lot lately.   Not like an audible voice, or even via email, but I’m getting his message loud and clear.   The best way I can describe it is when a thought enters your mind quicker than you could think it.   I also feel like saying, “I’m getting it, God!!” when there seems to be the same theme everywhere I turn.   Lately that theme has been chaos. Have you ever felt life getting comfortable, and as soon as you realize it - you worry that it’s “The Calm before the Storm?”   That’s how I’ve been feeling lately - except that I’m not worried, I’m happily anticipating what’s next to come…    I’ve come to the realization that a comfortable life is nothing to strive for.   I mean this in every way possible.   Financially, Jesus said “ Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God,” Luke 6:20.   And to those who are grieving, He reminds us that “God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted,