Well, these last few weeks have been the toughest in my life. My Mom passed away yesterday after a year-long battle with cancer. About two weeks ago she went downhill really fast and became completely unresponsive for about 4 days. Then, miraculously, she rallied and woke up again. We were able to spend a few wonderful days talking and spending time with her. Then Saturday night she started going downhill again, and yesterday morning we could tell it wouldn't be long. She passed yesterday afternoon at 3:00, at the young age of 49.

Obviously this is quite a difficult time for me and my family, but we're making it through. It is amazing how many people have been praying for us and supporting us. The most encouraging thing is that my Mom is in heaven now and she isn't suffering any more. The cancer caused her so much pain. I am so thankful for all the wonderful memories I have of her, and I am so excited to see her again someday.

The visiting hours are tomorrow, and then the funeral will be on Saturday, the day after Christmas. We're in for a challenging and emotional week, but we'll get through on God's strength.

"The ransomed of the LORD will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away."
Isaiah 51:11