Busy as a Bee

Matt's Dad passed away July 4th. Our family suffered a great loss at his parting. We are still going through much pain, depression, denial, and grief at this time. Thank the Lord Jim left his wife some money, otherwise she would be left destitute and financially ruined. I sure have gained an understanding of the need to get your affairs in order long long long long long before you think you may go. It was hard to see these two twenty-something brothers plan the funeral and all its arrangements, put order in the chaos of the family finances, and try to grieve for their father all at the same time. We have all learned lessons I think, but I sure understand death much better now. I am grateful to have come out of this being able to say that I know my father in law is in a better place and I have total faith that I will see him again. When you go through something like this, it really makes you question yourself and say, do I really believe that? But yes, I do. We felt such a sweet calming spirit at the cemetary as we said our last goodbyes to the frail mortal body of Jim. We somehow just knew that he was somewhere sweeter.

I need to talk of something happier now. These days grad school is taking aaaaalllllllllllllll of my time. The first two weeks were a breeze, and now they are laying it one thick. I am currently writing a short research paper on effective educational leadership. It sure is fun to learn and be so interested in what I'm learning. Homework is a bother for the sheer consumption of my life but it is gratifying to learn and grow. The more I learn- the less I want to be an administrator. Well, at least for now. Please, GO Thank a principal that you know. I never understood the weight that sits on their shoulders. WHew!

Matt is still working and heavily involved in keep the swimming pool running. It has been quite a burden on him as it never seems to be quite right. He's tried many things even changing all the sand in the filter, but nothing has worked. Today it looks like it may have died, at least the pump. We're calling in back up for this one, much to matt's relief. Hopefully it can get fixed and not cause further damage in time, money, and resources.

Matt and I sure appreciate all the prayers and thoughts of support we have received over the past few months. Thanks for strengthening us. I know that your prayers made a marked difference in the events in our lives. We all felt an unusual power of strength carrying us through this time. I love you, I thank you, I pray you will be blessed for your service to us. Please let us know how and when we can return the favor.
Much love,
jenni