Hot Maine Days!

Hot, hot and hotter! We have been very thankful for the air conditioner that the boys hauled up from the basement the other day as this week has been very hot. 

Yesterday Roger was able to be home by around eleven am., so that was a special surprise for all of us. We had been invited to come up to the lake by Allison for a bit, so it was fun for all of us to be able to spend some time at the lake. Even I got in the lake yesterday, so it was warm! 

I don’t know about you, but sometimes heat can make people grouchy! It was good to go to the lake and cool off, and the boys have been sleeping in the living room where it’s cooler. I haven’t been sleeping well at all lately, so I’ve been spending some extra time praying for many things. However, lack of sleep also makes a mama grouchy. 

Today Renee and I started to re-organize and set up our preschool room. It’s exciting to see freshly waxed floors, and to get into setting it all up for a new year. It’s also very overwhelming to see how much we need to do before our preschool open houses! But one thing at a time! We also had a good by party for our school administrator as she is retiring. I had made some desserts for that, and as usual there was plenty of food! I’d also appreciate your prayers for a new administrator for our school. It’s an important role, and one that I’m sure God is preparing someone special to fill that spot. 

This afternoon the kids and I spent some time at a different lake with a different friend. My sister, Jen, gave the kids an inflatable paddleboard a few weeks ago, and it has been so fun to take it to different lakes. I really enjoy it...when I can get it away from our children! It was a fun, relaxing afternoon with friends, water, and pizza. A fun time for all! 

I feel like I’ve been asking God for some pretty impossible things lately, but God constantly gives me reminders that He is bigger and greater than I can fathom. I’m restless and anxious for a few things in our current situation, and I constantly wrestle with giving things to God and then instantly taking back my fears. The boys have dentist appointments tomorrow at 7:30am., but I’m planning to taking the kids down to a cabin on the lake for a few days. Roger has been working a lot, and I’ve lost some joy in being a mom to some pretty great kids. I’m going to take them to the cabin for a few days and just soak up sunshine, lake time and together time. The cabin is relaxing, and while it will be totally different without Terri there with us, I know that my kids are excited to spend some time there. I am to actually, as it’s a place to get away from it all and  take my Bible and a cup of coffee down to the deck. We serve a big God and sometimes I just need to contemplate on that. 

Hot, Muggy Days of Summer and A Praise too!

                                                     Hot summer days! 

                                                       This boy loves a project! 

Since the last blog post I wrote was titled “Warm Days of Summer”, this one should be titled the “Scorching Days of Summer”! It was not just hot today, it was muggy, humid and uncomfortable. I find these days to be unusual here as compared to the normal days of summer in Wisconsin. It’s not often in Maine that even the beach doesn’t have a breeze! 

Yesterday was a full day of teaching Sunday school, worship service, lunch at church, and then youth group in the evening. While the day was warm, it was way warmer today! Roger was working yesterday, and that makes me appreciate it when he can come with us to church. In our children’s Sunday school class, we are studying about Jonah. Often we think of Jonah as the cute little children’s Bible story about the man swallowed by a big fish. But Jonah is so much more than that as Jonah is such an example of God’s mercy...and that same mercy is available for me and for you! God told Jonah to go to Nineveh, and instead Jonah goes the opposition direction as in 2500 miles the wrong way! Now that’s disobedience! God could allowed it so that Jonah never even got on the boat to go the wrong way, but I think God wanted to demonstrate to Jonah that He is merciful. I don’t know if the Sunday school kids learned anything as it was very hot in the sanctuary yesterday, but I’ve certainly been enjoying the study! 

After church the children were eager to be outside. It’s hard to sit in church when it is hot and the air feels still. I was walking towards going outside, when I was stopped by one of my friends, Sharon. Sharon is older than I, but still a very dear friend to me. She asked about our trip, and I started crying as I explained that the trip had been fine, but hearing about Kevin’s death had been so hard. Again I was so comforted by human touch as she reached out and wrapped me in her arms. I managed to get her shoulder all wet from tears, but it was a reminder of God’s comfort. God created us to need positive human touch, and I am so thankful for friends that offer a hug and a smile. I know my own children are needing more positive affirmation these days, much as I am. We are sometimes a hot mess, but God continues to sustain us and help us every step of the way. 

Roger was a little late coming to youth group, but we were glad that he made it. Roger is truly one of the most faithful men I know, and he’s going to do the right thing with quietness and confidence. He doesn’t seek out praise or recognition, but he will work long and hard to do the right thing...always. I’m so blessed to call him my best friend. Garett rode home in Rogers car, and Roger was able to spend some time in conversation with Garett. Garett opened up a bit to Roger about some of his feelings, and we do ask for your continued prayers. Garett got a letter from his grandpa (Roger’s dad) today, and while Garett told me that the letter was a lot of reading, he was happy to get a letter -sounds like Garett! 

After youth group, Travis and Wyatt were thrilled to get to spend the night at a friends house. They’ve only had about two sleepovers in their lives, so this was a big deal. It also provided a welcome distraction for them and something that was lighthearted in their lives. Ashley endured nerf gun wars, legos, and lots of loud boys at her house! Travis and Wyatt were happy to tell me about their adventures this afternoon, and I was happy to hear about their fun. 

This morning, I took the three that were at home and we met some friends at the beach. It’s very unusual to go to the beach and still feel hot! Even the beach felt sticky today! We enjoyed our time with Annah and her children down by the beach. The boys caught crabs, and Chandler was happy to find a sand dollar. Emma played with the girls, and Annah, Isabelle and I walked on the beach. It’s weird to be so hot, but yet the ocean water numbs my ankles! 

I had a meeting this afternoon to discuss some plans for preschool this fall. I’m a big fan of in-person meetings as so much can get lost in translation in emails and texts! I actually walked away from the meeting feeling very encouraged, and I know that’s because of the power of prayer. I had asked some of my closest friends to be in prayer about this meeting, and I truly felt that God was at work. If anyone has learned anything these last six months, it’s that life has some disappointments in it! It was like waves of peace at the meeting, and I’m looking forward to God doing great and mighty things in the preschool classes this year. 

Random note: We discovered an air conditioner in our basement in a tucked away place. It’s been here since we’ve moved in. Today was such a hot day that Chandler decided that he would see if he could get the air conditioner to work so that he could put it in the living room window. I certainly wasn’t holding out much hope for something that had been in the house since before we moved in! (Generally people only leave their junk behind!) Anyways, shortly after banging around in the basement, he comes back to announce that he “Fixed” the air conditioner. I asked how he did that. He replied, “I looked it over real good, and then decided that the first thing I should do was plug it in. And it works!” Needless to say, I was very surprised! He coerced Garett into helping him lug it up the stairs, and then managed to find an old piece of lumber to brace it with under the window. My favorite part about all of this is that I just watched the kids in action. It’s lovely that they are now old enough to lug stuff around, move things, and figure out what to do! And now our living room is much cooler than it was at 3:30pm. This afternoon. It was an unexpected blessing, but that’s just how big our God is! 

I’d appreciate your continued prayers for Roger as well as our children. Also, please be in prayer for our upcoming school year that God will be glorified through it all. I know that God is in the business of using His people for His glory, and I’m thankful for His bountiful, amazing grace towards me. 

Warm Days of Summer!

                                                  So thankful for Hannah’s friendship to me. 

Hard days for this son of ours. 

Does anybody’s life feel “normal” these days?! There is a push from society, propaganda, social media, newspapers, politicians, etc. to shove the American people towards accepting the “new normal”. I’m frustrated, irritated, and annoyed that we are constantly bombarded with division, differences of opinions, and false assumptions about people. Hmm...there’s my rant for today! 

We ended up working and puttering around the house yesterday. Roger was working, and the kids and I picked up the yard, mowed grass, and Chandler and I went grocery shopping (a much-needed activity!). Emma wanted to come to Wal-mart too, so she came with us while the other boys stayed at home. The day was warm, but we did take an adventure to meet some friends at a local park. The kids were happy to play with their friends at the park and Ashley and I were happy to have the opportunity to walk around and visit while the kids played. John and Ashley bought pizza for lunch in the park, and the eight kids between us were happy to munch on pizza in the shade...seven boys and one girl. Garett and I had a long discussion on Friday morning, one where I cried, and he seemed unemotional. I know his emotions are in there somewhere, but it’s a bit like talking to a prickly cactus right now!

Today dawned a warm day in mid-coast Maine. Garett and I took several trips to the dump as we haven’t been in a few weeks. I am thankful that the dump runs do provide opportunities for one-on-one conversation with Garett. He was not overly chatty, but it was better than yesterday. After the dump run, we went out to the airport to do an errand for Roger. Then a quick stop at the bank, and back home to pack for some time at the lake! 

Chandler, Garett and Wyatt all brought along all their fishing stuff; we packed up lots of snacks, and we were off for the lake. We had been invited by our pastor to come down to their cottage by the lake for part of the day. The kids had a great time jumping in and out of the lake, fishing, and playing together. Emma was delighted that there were some other girls there to play with, and the boys always have a good time with Austin. All the boys caught at least one fish, but we dont have any pictures because they were off in the canoes. And I was on shore with the camera! Oh well! Fun memories were created!

I enjoyed the afternoon visiting with the ladies there, and it was an afternoon well spent. Somehow time seems to slow down when we take a step back, sit in a lawn chair, and watch carefree children frolic in the water- I do not want that to change! 

Roger was working today, but he was happy to be flying today. We don’t know how long this season will be, but we know that God will sustain and continue to provide for us. Roger is one of the most faithful and steadfast people that I know. I get annoyed sometimes because he doesn’t think fast or always give answers as fast as I’d like, but it also makes him a good friend, co-worker, and ...he has to apologize a lot less! 

Tell me.....what are everyone plans for school in the fall? Are your schools re-opening? What are the requirements? Anyone homeschooling for the first time? These are challenging times for sure! We are so thankful that we serve a strong, mighty and fearless God! When I feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or lonely, I am so often reminded that so many of the characters in the Bible also felt the same way. They also had to make a conscious choice to throw their fears at the feet of Jesus. Tears, fears -I’m thankful that Jesus takes them both! 

Lake Fun, Arguments, Father- Son Dates!

This morning the weather was foggy and Un-flyable for a little bit. While it’s bad weather for flying, it’s a good morning for coffee and visiting as a family. Our children slept in a little bit this morning as they did not get up until around 7am. After many late bedtimes with friends here, it was good for them to sleep (I wish they would’ve slept a little longer). Some of our children were a bit out-of-sorts this morning. I know that’s surprising to you as they are such perfect little angels (I KID!) but grouchiness was rearing it’s ugly head today. Garett is by far our most easy going child, but today he was looking to get in an argument with someone. He was agitated, irritated, and just plain angry at the world. I know that feeling as that was me about a week ago. It’s a combination of tiredness and grief. Garett has been bottling up and holding in and today he was a Volcano. I’ll be the first to admit that my initial response to him was not helpful, but do you know what is helpful? Assuring him that he is loved, even when he’s a bear. We will pray our way through this as well. 

After Roger headed into work later this morning, we did some cleaning and organizing around the house. Our friend, Allison, invited us to come down to the lake for a swim. Our children do not have to be asked twice if they want to go swimming! They might move slowly for other things in life, but not for swimming! They gathered up towels, swim gear, fought over who lost the goggles last and managed to get out the door. Next time everyone is going to be required to bring different colors of towels! How is it that no one forgot a towel, and yet we didn’t have enough towels?! Anyways, we had a great time. I haven’t seen Allison since before we left for our Wisconsin trip, so it was good to visit with her. She’s a good listener and a prayer partner. I’m blessed to call her my friend. The kids swam for a couple of hours, and then we gathered up our stuff to go home. Somehow, we always manage to forget something! 

This afternoon the fog rolled back in across the islands, so Roger was able to come home a bit earlier than normal! He’s been trying to make the time to take the boys on a date with just him, and tonight was the night. Travis and Wyatt were happy to go together on a date with their daddy, and I was happy to see them excited to go out to eat together. Travis is quiet and Wyatt is quieter, but between them both, they’ll have conversations. I am thankful that God provided the younger boys some special time with their daddy. 

Last night Roger and I went to church to work on something. We left the boys and Emma at home, so that we could call it a date. We both treasure the moments where we can have uninterrupted conversations these days. While on the way to church, the song “Lord, I need You” was playing. It’s one of my very favorite songs, and I looked over to tell Roger about it. I saw unheeded tears streaming from his eyes. Roger is not one to wear his emotions on his sleeve, but tears these days often come at the most unexpected times...for all of us. One of the challenges has been that we are both very overwhelmed with certain situations in our lives...and sometimes the situations are different ones. Both us are aware of the burdens that the other is carrying, but it seems so unfair to unload more on each other. I’ve been writing more in my personal journal lately, drinking more coffee, and praying more often. Roger has been more quiet, his eyes show concern, and his step sometimes seems weary. Yet God is patient, kind, and loving. He gives us blessings every single day that show us that He cares. He is in control of everything, and we just need to rest in that. And Sometimes when there are no words, music speaks. 

I told a friend recently that this has been a season of praying and waiting. Praying and waiting. Praying and waiting. If you know anything about me, you’ll know that waiting is not my favorite thing! But it’s where we are in our lives, and I need to rest in that too. 

Friendships, Realities and Depression

We’ve enjoyed the fellowship of some dear friends, the Longsine family, the past few days. Oh, how good it was to laugh together, enjoy each other’s company and share in the woes and joys of parenting children. We treasured the moments with them, and the days flew by. Roger was working a lot, but we did manage to sneak in a double date. Beka and I were talking that the day had finally arrived that we could leave our kids at home for a bit while we went out for a date...it’s hard to believe that day had arrived! Beka and Jared were able to hop on a mail flight out to one of the islands, so that was fun. We also spent time at the beach, time hiking, lots of time prepping and eating food, swimming, and lots of laughter. 

Sunday marked the day of Kevin’s Celebration of Life service. It was a hard, hard day. There were a lot of people that testified to the character trains that marked Kevin’s life. While the service was a bit long for the children, they did very well siting through the speakers. The celebration of life was held in a hanger at the airport, which was a great spot as the airport held such a spot in Kevin’s heart. The day was very warm, but it was a blessing to me to listen to others tell stories of Kevin’s character and who he was as a person. Also... there was so, so much food at the luncheon afterwards! I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a large amount of food- so many choices! I helped serve food at the luncheon, and Roger took the kids home in the afternoon while I stayed to help clean up from the luncheon. Deciding what to do with all the food was certainly a challenge. We were able to take some food home and that was a big blessing as we had extra people at our house.  Roger’s brother, Nate, had flown in for the service as well, and it was good to see him again. My sister and her husband came down for the celebration of life service also. They were unable to stay for the whole thing, but it was good to see them again. 

 Somehow I anticipated that once we cried through that ceremony, we would be on our way to healing. I do believe that we are on the way to healing, but grief is a funny thing. It comes in waves, and so many stages, and at times you can go back and forth between the stages of grief. I found myself driving alone in the car this past week as I had run an errand for Roger. On the way home, a song came on the radio, and I sobbed. I don’t know the last time I sobbed like that, gut-wrenching, hiccuping cries. I had the sense of mind to pull into a parking lot and eventually all the tears were cried out (at least for that day!). Life is forever different, and I’m generally not a fan of change. 

Depression is a real and active enemy in our household right now as I see Roger struggle with it, and I know that I am as well. I could hear it in Roger’s voice as he was coming home from work this past week. I think Roger is also very overwhelmed. It’s not just work as Roger enjoys his job, but also the fact that he attended a meeting after work one day this week on top of long, long days. The responsibilities do not lessen  just because there are other things happening in our lives. We still have parenting responsibilities, our marriage commitment, church responsibilities, school responsibilities, as well as just life...sometimes it’s just a wee (lot bit!) overwhelming! Oh, I am so thankful that God’s grace sustains and strengthens us! 

Our children needed the distraction of their friends this week, and Roger and I treasured moments of conversation with other like-minded adults. Beka and Jared are very dear friends to us, and it was our pleasure to host them for a few days. Emma savored the moments with other girls in our house, as that is not generally the case! She loved having “older” sisters this week, and the boys enjoyed their time also. Moments to treasure thats for sure! 

I hope I’m not coming across as a negative Nellie! There were lots of great things from this past week, but there sure have been some discouraging moments of late. Communication struggles, discouragements, and battles that the Devil constantly throws at me sometimes threaten to steal my joy. Truth is though that real joy is not found from circumstances or situations, but rather from my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It’s the reason that I can smile at our neighbors, love our children, muddle through uncertainties and discouragement, and still say through it all that “God is good.” 

Kingjamesbibleonline.org

Hard Days & Deep Emotions

One thing is for sure- 2020 is going to be a year to remember! To be honest, I’ve always been one to tell my children, “Enjoy where you are at. Enjoy the age you are now. Etc.” And now I’m the one that wants to hurry up and put 2020 in behind us! I know that God knows exactly where we are at, and He knows what we are feeling. I’m thankful that God created us with emotions so that we can experience joy, peace, love,etc. Experiencing deep sorrow and sadness and loss are not my favorite emotions, but those are needed emotions also. This has been a week of experiencing those latter mentioned emotions. 

On Thursday we attended the burial of Kevin, Roger’s boss, our friend, a mentor to our children, and to be honest this was the closest person that our children have known that has passed away. Kevin was like a grandparent to our children, and they have experienced such deep sadness and sorrow. As we stood at the grave on Thursday, among the last to leave the cemetery, I felt as though my heart was breaking as I listened to my children cry at the graveside. I don’t think I will ever, ever have that memory erased from my mind. 

The burial service was held at a cemetery right near the airport. Our boys were asked if they wanted to join the pall bearers, and they all said that they wanted to do that. The line guys at Roger’s work helped the boys feel included, and I was thankful for that. There were a few chairs at the graveside service, as most of us stood. When Terry came and took her seat, Emma went and sat on the grass right by Terry’s chair. Travis, Wyatt and Garett all sat down by Emma, while Chandler stood right by my elbow. I hadn’t planned on Emma sitting down right by Terry’s chair, but Emma and Terry seemed to need each other. As Terry held back tears as well as let them flow, Emma just scooted closer and closer to her chair. Emma, herself, did not cry at the funeral but Wyatt, Travis and Chandler were all so exhausted from the tears by the end of the service. As a parent, it is so hard to watch your children go through difficult things. I can’t fix this for them. Life will never be the same, and it’s just hard. We’ve been so blessed to have Kevin and Terry in our lives, and Kevin will be so, so missed. Even now, I can’t write this without soaking through a pile of tissues beside my bed. 

At the small luncheon following the funeral, we had the opportunity to sit at a table with one of Kevin’s old friends. Oh, it was so good to hear him tell funny stories to our kids about the adventures that he and Kevin had together. Laughter is good medicine. Chandler did tell me on the way home, that he really appreciated that he could wear a t shirt and shorts to the funeral! Kevin rarely wore a tie, and in honor of that, all the pilots and crew wore their company t shirts. Our boys also have company T-shirts, and they were happy to not have to dress up. Garett wouldn’t have minded, but Chandler seems to get a rash whenever he has to wear dress clothes! (Not really, but if it’s possible to be allergic to dress clothes, Chandler would have that allergy!) 

Please continue to keep Terry in your prayers. She is a dear friend, and a strong lady. We love her dearly. No one ever expects these things to happen. I know that I envisioned Kevin mentoring Garett in flying, encouraging Chandler’s entrepreneurship, coming to school programs, graduations, and life events. But  that is not the case. We are faced with grief and changes. I’m thankful that God knows our emotions, and that He loves us more than I can fathom. Even when I do not understand, I know that His love is greater than I can fathom.

We’ve had a few other distractions this week, and we’ve been thankful for friendships, laughter, and sunshine! My friend, Bethany watched our children on Thursday afternoon, and it was such an encouragement to our children to have the opportunity to play with some of their friends again. Our friend, Art and Damaris, called us to tell us that they're thinking and praying for us. It was just so encouraging to hear their voices. 

We also received school recommendations from our governor today. To say that I’m overwhelmed would be another understatement. Nothing seems to get any easier! Please continue to pray for school this fall, wisdom, discernment, and just some good news! 

There’s an old hymn that I have had constantly on my mind the last few days. Part of it states, “When the days are weary, the long nights dreary, I know my Savior cares. Oh yes, He cares.” So, so thankful that Jesus cares for us. 

Peace in the Storm

One of our sons....Garett

It’s unusual for me to not have much to write about, but my heart is so very full. It’s just inexpressible right now. Tomorrow will be a hard day for Terry, her extended family, PIA, and our family as well. Grief comes in waves and stages, and we all process things differently. Today we had plenty to do at home to keep us busy, but instead we headed down to the ocean for a while. There is something very calming about observing God’s creation at the ocean. We discovered several jellyfish, some sea glass, and some of the kids even waded in the ocean. The housework and chores were still waiting for me when we arrived home...surprise! We’d appreciate your prayers for tomorrow as well as for Sunday. We just need a lot of Jesus around here! He’s our Rock, our Comfort, and in Whom we trust. 

When Life Is Not All Roses and Just Feels like Thorns!

                                                Photo credit:   https://truthinpalmyra

“Who is my only confidence? Christ alone, Christ alone.”  This song is here.  During these days of tumultuous emotions, I take rest in Christ. We are all very much processing the death of Kevin, Roger’s boss. God has been so faithful. 

This week will be attending the burial for Kevin, the celebration of life this Sunday, as well as welcoming a few friends for a few days. It’s amazing how the week can be long and short at the same time! On Sunday afternoon, I took the kids to visit Terry (Kevin’s wife). It was a hard visit for us, but yet so good at the same time. The kids all wanted to see and to hug Terry. Emma has no idea how to deal with death, so she was a bit sillier than I would’ve liked to see. Chandler and Wyatt both shed tears and sobs of broken hearts. Travis and Garett both kept their distance. I feel that Travis is expressing his grief through more emotions at home. I’m a little concerned that Garett is holding back on expressing his grief, but I’m just asking God to speak to his heart. It gives me great comfort to know that God is the God of all comfort. He goes before us, beside us, and He carries us at times. While talking with Terry, talk of the burial and the celebration of life service came up. Emma heard “celebration” and immediately turns to Terry and says, “What kind of cake are we having for the celebration?” I could’ve crawled under the couch! Thankfully, Terry just laughed as she realized that Emma’s thought of “celebration” was a bit different from what we were talking about! 

The truth of the matter is that life cannot all be roses, and sometimes when we are already facing discouragement or hardship, we just seem to get more of the same! I recognize the attack of Satan to get me to feel more defeated and alone, and it’s another opportunity to cry out to my Heavenly Father for His wisdom, love and guidance. I attended an event yesterday where I felt left out and excluded. Ever been somewhere where there are people around you and you still feel alone? Yes, that was me yesterday. It’s a matter that is dear to my heart, but what to do, I have no idea. 

How often it seems during these recent events in our country that we assume things. We assume if someone doesn’t think like us that they must not like us. We assume that we cannot  have interaction with someone who doesn’t think like us because we won’t be able to agree to disagree. We assume the worst of people, and unfortunately it’s both Christian and non- Christian alike. As a Christian, I have no desire to break fellowship with someone over something that is not a doctrinal issue. I want to respond in love both in word and in deed. Do I always? Um...no. However, that would be my goal and my desire. As an American citizen, I want to get along with those around me and live peaceably when possible. That doesn’t mean that I am required to lay down at the feet of every whim of those around me, but it means that I should respect other fellow citizens who also might differ in their opinion. 

I recently had a long conversation with a friend about some of the matters in our state versus the state that she lives in. A lot of the the struggles run along the same veins as what we have here. Satan is fighting hard on all fronts for “neighbor to be against neighbor” “Mother against child”, etc. And we must fight against that! Whether or not churches should resume all ministries; whether or not school should re-open; masks or no-masks; vaccine or no vaccine; and the list goes on and on and on and on. I’ve given up on posting just about anything on social media because people can’t agree to disagree nicely. I will comment on certain news station headlines, etc., but I’ll never go back and read the comments because people are just mean and unkind. We have a massive problem in our world and in our country, and it stems from a broken world. “There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans)  and “Every man did that which was right in their own eyes” (Judges) ....do you see the problem? Apart from God, we base everything on our own will and our desires. When the standard for right and wrong, good and bad, true and false, righteous and evil, love and hate are built upon everyone doing what is right in their own eyes, massive and widespread dysfunction results. The good news is that even in the midst of chaos, confusion, and conflict, God has not forgotten us. God desires a personal relationship with you and with me. I have no idea what the future holds, but I know I serve the God who does know what the future holds. I know that my feelings and emotions are vulnerable and hurting right now, and I know that God cares. I know that the days seem long,  but I know that God cares. 

Deep Sadness and Deep Love

It has been an overwhelming and heartbreaking few days and that is a gross understatement. On Sunday night, Roger called me and with his voice breaking with emotion, he told me that his boss, Kevin, had unexpectedly passed away. I started sobbing, and my heart is broken. Kevin was so much more than a boss to our family. He was one of Roger’s dearest friends. He gave Garett his first official flying lesson. He welcomed all of our kids into his office with a smile and, “Hey kids, the fridge is stocked (with sodas).” When he asked how you were doing, he took the time to really listen. He was always busy, but always willing to listen. When I was discouraged and frustrated with the state of our nation and state, he listened. He always ended his conversations with a hug, a smile, and “You count.” I don’t have the words to describe how much he will be missed by just our family alone much less the hundreds and thousands of lives he has touched. 

Breaking the news to my children will forever be on my list of the hardest things I have ever done. There was not enough of me to go around as every child needed a hug, a comforting touch, and words of love. Mr. Kevin was their friend too, and I know their hearts are hurting. Needless to say there was not much sleeping going on around here on Sunday night. We all needed to be with Roger, but we are instead over 21 hours away visiting my family in Wisconsin. Three of our five kids immediately stated that they wanted to go home right away. I know they are still in deep shock, and it’ll take a while for his death to become real...to all of us. Roger and I spent time talking and praying about what we should do, and we decided that it would probably be best if the kids and I stuck with the original plan of returning home on Friday. As much as we want to be together, our kids also need this time with my parents. We’ve certainly been reminded that life is short and that we don’t know when death will come knocking. 

I know I’m going to want to write more about Kevin, but my heart is just so overwhelmed that it’s hard to process any cognitive thoughts. Garett told me last night that his favorite memory  is when he got to go flying with Mr. Kevin. Garett’s first official flying lesson will forever be a favorite memory. Our children only have good memories of Kevin, and their love for him is deep and pure. Chandler and Garett were remembering just the time a few weeks ago when they flew in the float plane with Kevin up to the northern camp for the day. Our kids have fond memories of meals at our house, laughter and adventures, Kevin’s offers of allowing the boys to hang out at the airport, cold sodas, surprise birthday parties, hugs and affection, and the security of knowing that they were loved by Kevin. He will be missed. 

Our hearts are overwhelmed. Our hearts are broken. Our hearts are seeking the comfort of our Heavenly Father. Our hearts are resting in the peace that our Heavenly Father gives to us. 

 We could use an extra measure of grace, and please uphold Kevin’s wife in your prayers with us. 

Pictures!

                 The fishing rig! 

Papa showing Travis how to drive the four wheeler 

                                                                           Fish! 

Fun attic treasures! 

All tired out! 

Wisconsin life! 

 

We’ve been busy the last few days! Jenn and I clean out out my parents basement and got ready to have a yard sale. We haven’t made much money, but the basement is clean! 

The boys have been fishing, four wheeling, camping, and enjoying hours outside. Emma has also been outside a lot running through the sprinkler, going shopping with mom and Aunt Jen, and Nana and eating IN a restaurant. 

We’ve been enjoying the memories and the opportunities to visit with my parents. The weather has been very, very hot here, and unfortunately no public pools are open here this summer. We are thankful for the blessings of visiting with family. It’s been especially nice to not see signs everyone ordering you to wear a mask. When we were shopping last night Emma asked at every store, “Do we have to wear a mask here?” It’s very hot, so I am very thankful that it is not a requirement. I read an interesting article stating that the governments do not have the authority to mandate a mask....interesting. I’m not opposed to others wearing a mask as I’ve said before. Here Is the article that I am referring.