Thinking of each of you and praying for you as well.  I felt the need to connect to our prayer partners tonight, so I'm including you in the update.  I love you all.....xoxoxo

Sweet Friends,

      It has been a little over 2 months since Greg left for Heaven and honestly, I’ve missed connecting with you. You became such an important part of our journey and it has felt strange to have you absent from my life.  Many of you have been inquiring as to how I am doing, and I really appreciate that more than you know.  I would like to tell you that I’ve been a faith giant marching forward with my head held high, but that is not the truth. Actually, I’m quite often bowed down and not nearly as brave as I was with Greg by my side.  It is not that my faith has wavered, just the opposite.  The knowledge and assurance of Greg’s joy in Heaven is what keeps me going.  That indescribable gift of salvation and eternity with our Savior, the anticipation of seeing Greg again one day, brings me unspeakable joy.  But the other reality that cannot be denied is that I am without my soul mate.  Greg and I were not just joined at the heartstrings, but were joined at the hip!  We were Snoopy and Charlie, Batman and Robin, the Lone Ranger and Tonto and of course, Romeo and Juliet.  Where Greg began and Laura ended, I now realize, was hard to define.  And so, while I have many blessings to count, a huge part of me is missing. 

    I did take a leave of absence from school while I try to find my footing.  The boys have been wonderful, and like me, are working through these times.  The grandkids are my joy and we are close to welcoming little Lilly into this world.  Without a doubt, God is carrying each of us along and we know that He holds every tear in His hands.  In my loneliest times, I am certain of the fact that God has a purpose for my life without Greg.  I know that He wants me to live abundantly and He will continue to use this for good.  I pray to know these things and to be a willing vessel.  It will take time. 

    I would like you to know that you continue to be in my prayers.  Greg and I have always kept a prayer journal and prayed for you by name and for specific requests.  We loved doing that together.  For our cancer buddies, we loved to pray over your MRIs and your doctor appointments.  Please allow me to continue this privilege and know that I’m humbled and honored when you share any need with me.  I will faithfully pray; there is no request too small.  The prayers you said for us were a blessing and carried us through the tough times. 

    When I get really sad, I remind myself that Greg is simply gone from my sight.  Life has not ended, but changed. In Christ there are no goodbyes.  I believe Greg is smiling down on each of us and urging us on. He will be bouncing with joy when we are reunited again. Take care, dear friends and know you are precious to me and to God.

    With great affection,

         Laura