Ferns

 I recently found out that dear neighbors from my childhood are facing a battle in health.

Mr. and Mrs. Fern, Margaret and Wes have a special place in my heart.

We have so many great memories from Herblew Road.  In fact, too many to recall in just one visit.

 I have always lived life knowing it's precious.  It's short.  Take advantage of opportunities when you can.  People are important.  They matter more than things.  Invest in them.  Love them.  Cherish them.  My father taught me these truths.

Shawn and I and our boys stopped in to visit with them last Saturday before heading to a picnic at the McNally's. I am so glad we made the trip.  What a blessing to my soul to hug, laugh and cry with this family.  Through the years we have stayed in touch.  That's what you do with people who had a huge part in your life.  Wes and I spent many days, biking, building forts in woodsheds, snow, leaves, bushes and even living rooms, swimming, fighting, laughing, stitches and broken bones, playing board and card games, eating homemade pizza, grilled cheese, brownies, cheese and mustard sandwiches, iced tea, Charlie's Chips, vacations, drive-in movies and sleeping under the stars. Together our families have shared in new life, death, weddings, graduations and picnics. What a treasure those memories are to me and always will be.

We are praying for you all.

Praying that God would be the source of your peace, wisdom and strength.  We will be back soon.  Promise.

 We laugh as we embrace the sweet memories.

We cry as we face the unknowns of tomorrow.

But we can hope in the God of our future, who holds our tomorrows.  In Him, we place our trust.