looking forward

I am here!

I know it has been awhile since my last post,

but I want to say-- it is GOOD to be back!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We traveled to Ohio a few weeks ago for my grandmother's

memorial service and for a short vacation, while there.

The area we were in, was near Cleveland and I must say,

it was just beautiful this time of year; their springtime.

Trees were budding & blooming, birds were singing,

the sun shining,and tulips popping up everywhere!

(the red ones were my favorite)

We don't see too many tulips here in my neck of the woods.

It was such a treat.

We went on a hike one day, near a beautiful waterfall

and in a deep lush wooded area, the day after a rain.

The sky was a pale baby blue with puffs of white clouds.

Now, it just wouldn't be fair to give you only descriptions of

what we experienced--

so I brought my camera along.

We also enjoyed lots of cousin time sight-seeing and shopping!

It is always good to memorialize and celebrate the life,

of a loved one.

To bring to mind all of the happy times that you shared together,

and to share in those times with the ones who will miss them the most.

My grandmother would have loved her Celebration of Life!

I could just imagine seeing her face as 100 of her family and friends

gathered together--- speaking, listening, laughing & enjoying wonderful

food and fellowship. 

Christ was very present there that day---

 Her ashes were laid to rest near her father's grave,

as her loved ones stood near, some visiting that cemetary often,

and some like me --- not very.

The sunshine warmed our faces as we listened to God's word being read.

He could not have orchestrated a more perfect Ohio afternoon.

As we said good-bye to our grandmother,

I look forward to what God has for us, in our own lives as grandparents.

I look forward to the lasting memories we will make

with our grandchildren.

Will they remember a grandmother who prayed for them daily

and always had them on her mind?

Maybe.

Will my legacy hold a special love for them,

for much time spent with them --- time invested into their precious lives?

Yes, I think so.

So, that is my Vow.

Now, here's to looking forward...