Dear Friends,

I have often started my posts by calling you "friends," but now more than ever that name seems appropriate, even for those of you I don't know well or don't know at all. The outpouring of love and support we as a family experienced at Mom's memorial service was astounding. Although the funeral day was overwhelming and produced a sadness in me that I have never experienced before, it also stirred up hope. Mom would have appreciated the entire day so much, from the flowers to the singing to the beautiful tributes and message to the delicious luncheon to the presence of each one of you.

Many have asked me when I was going to write a new entry on this blog. I have tried several times to write, and each time no words have come to me. I searched for something profound to say, but I haven't yet even come to terms with my own grief to the point where I can even absorb much in the way of wise words or helpful advice, let alone post any of it. My mom was the one who always knew exactly what to say, and I pray that she has left even a small portion of that ability to me. For now, we have just tried to move through the day with as much strength as possible. We have spent time together as a family, visiting the cottage and trading memories of summer days spent there with Mom. We are finishing a week of vacation with a combined birthday celebration for Deborah (July 30th), and Claire (August 14th--she was Mom's birthday twin!), and me (today) after spending several days in Ocean City, NJ. Mom loved the beach and the ocean so much. It was both comforting and painful to be there.

An hour doesn't pass without a fresh memory of Mom passing through my mind, sometimes as a playful nudge, other times as quick and jarring as a clap of thunder. We received several e-mails and handwritten notes from friends representing every phase of Mom's life and find great solace in reading their memories and reflections. Please continue to share if you feel led--we would rather talk about Mom and hear from the people who loved her even if it is sometimes painful; these recollections keep her spirit alive for us.

I can hardly believe that I turned 31 today. In some ways I feel like so much of my life has passed in the blink of an eye; in other ways I gaze into the future and feel the weight of how much of my life I must face without my Mom's advice and encouragement and easy laughter. With every day that passes I have more questions than answers, which is why the truths we focused on at the memorial service are so timely and so necessary. God's grace is still sufficient.

Thank you all for wanting to continue this journey with us.