What do I title THIS post?

Yes, folks. I actually made it back several weeks ago, back from a blissful world of baby hugs and little-girl kisses, back from being a real hands-on grandma to Ryleigh and Grant. It was so much fun, not only to be with them, but to have three full weeks with our family, including my parents and my sister Ana. It was totally an awesome time, with no time at all to blog or email or even think about anything else outside of PA. I think Philip and I both needed it!

Well now the month of January is almost totally gone. So much has happened and so much lies ahead in this new Year. The most heart-breaking news that we have dealt with has been the tragedy of our dear friends, Roberta and David Miller in the loss of their daughter and two lovely grandchildren. Roberta always is in contact with us, and the day before I heard about the accident I was going through my Christmas photo cards, and there was one of all of the Miller family. It had hung on my refrigerator for most of the year and I anticipated receiving a new one from Roberta....needless to say, I have it where I can see it often and pray for Brent and all of them.

I can't even begin to fathom what losing a daughter must be like, and losing my only two grandchildren as well. All I know to do is to daily and whenever they come to my mind, to pray for another great measure of God's awesome grace to be deposited in their hearts. Roberta, David, Julie, Sylvia, Lydia... and of course dear Brent...why you have been asked to walk this path puzzles me, and yet makes me realize that I too must be willing for whatever He asks of me.

I won't stop praying for you all.

Brenda, here's to you!

Happy Birthday, honey!

It can't possibly be 24 now, can it? No way.

Daddy and I smile at the many cute memories you made through the years. I can still see you and Shari in the back of the pickup, parked in the driveway, singing about Jesus. Remember how excited you were to get a baby sister when you were three years old, and from then on you mothered and took care of her and gave in many times? Remember the "stage" you went through when getting a picture of you was like impossible without you making a silly face?? As a young teenager you always seemed to know when your help was needed and between you and Shari you soon began to take up so many responsibilities. You're a great wife to Brent, and the future is bright for both of you. We couldn't be any prouder....

We can hardly wait till we get to see you in a couple of weeks, Lord willing. Make everyone give you lots of kisses for us today!

Love,
Mom and Dad

Three weeks later.....

I had every intention of posting before we left on our trip to Guatemala. There was a lot taking place around that time, not to mention getting ready for the trip. But as soon as I can I will try to fill in the blanks about the last three weeks.

For now, just wanted to post a note saying we arrived in Jalapa, Guatemala tonight, in readiness for the pastors's retreat which starts Monday evening. We left Salamanca last Monday, and I have pictures of our stops along the way, but just realized that my camera is in the van, which is parked in a garage down the street. We, along with Crystal and Michael Mason and boys, are staying with Lee and Sharon Rickenbach in their nice and comfy home here in Jalapa. After several days of staying in "sufficient, but less-than-ideal situations", it is so nice to enjoy clean and very comfortable quarters and have the luxury of a washer and dryer thrown in. Best part of all for Philip and I is getting to see our friends after so many years. This week of visiting will be so nice!

I will try to get some pics up tomorrow, that is, if time permits. I HAVE to spend the afternoon getting ready for a women's session on Tuesday afternoon. Philip has asked me to do the women's counterpart on his session, the theme being "Shepherding our Families". I am using Jochebed, the mother of Moses, as the basis for my study, and am praying that God will help me develop as it should be. Pray for me, will you?

Well, it is getting close to midnight so I better run. ( I mean, stop...)