In which we grieve....and Hope.

       We're in Durango now. It was a whirlwind of road trips, flights, another road trip..but we're here.The kids did marvelously well, praise the Lord!
 It's heartbreaking to be here, of course-but there's peace here, too. And it's so much better being here in the midst of it all than being thousands of miles away from everyone. The light and the dark are standing side by side, everyday. Moments of laughter, followed by tears. We're so glad to be here with everyone..my folks are staying with us at the Blegers' house, which is wonderful for so many reasons. 
          Seeing friends at church yesterday, sitting beside my mother-in-law...hard. Lots of tears..and yet, Hope. Going through pictures for Celine's slide show with my sister-in-law last night..bittersweet. And yet so good to see her life, the people she loved, her smile. In so many of them she's holding one of her nieces or nephews..and that's just how it was. She loved them. They loved her.
        I have so much in my heart right now, but it's for later. Mostly just wanted to let far-away family and friends who are praying know we're here, we're safe, and we're so very thankful for your prayers. We can clearly feel the peace of God in this place-the strength of God flowing from your prayers. Please keep praying...there's still a long, long road ahead. And tomorrow morning is her celebration of Life service.