Easter!

Look at these bright and colorful children! Aren't they beautiful?! Yes, I am a little biased since they belong to me, but still! I am amazed at how big they are getting. It seems like it was just a year ago that I was dressing them in matching outfits and snapping a thousand pictures of them hunting eggs, and going through easter baskets. Now they pick out their own outfits! We did have an egg hunt this year, but the batteries in my camera were dead so i got ZERO pictures of that.

As I look at this picture I am reminded of how even though they are dressed in new Easter clothes, they are all well aware that having a new outfit is not the best part of Easter. Every one of them know that Easter is the day we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. And for that, I am thankful!

My Friend Sarah

This is my friend Sarah. She is an amazing woman and an inspiration to those who know her. She is a true picture of what grace looks like in action.

We met at The Gideons when we both worked there. My first impression of her was that she was someone who grabbed the joy in life and passed it on to others. She always found the humor in situations and loved to share. I think the best thing about Sarah is that she doesn't care what people think of her. She lives every single moment to the fullest. I love her for that.

Even though I have only known Sarah for 3 years, I have so many happy memories. One of my favorites is when we used to laugh about one of the vendors that called in on an almost daily basis. He didn't like me at all, but he always wanted to talk to Sarah! We would laugh every time he called! There was never a dull moment, especially if Sarah was telling the story!

Two years ago Sarah told us that she had breast cancer. Since then she has fought a good fight. She has held on, stubbornly, as have those of us who love her. The day she shaved her head we had a scarf party for her and had a blast! In the worst days we have provided meals or just sat with her, in the best days we have laughed. One day I picked her up from chemo and we went to Panera to eat. That was one of the best afternoons of my life as we just talked and laughed.

This week I have visited Sarah in hospice. Even in this, the last days of earthly life, she is smiling. I am amazed by her, inspired by her even. In conversations with her husband and family one can feel the peace even in this storm. As great as my selfish pain is, I am in awe of the love and faith of this family. Sarah is going home, but her legacy here on earth will carry on.