Liz's Letters

With autumn, we feel the weather change from warm to cool. We see the trees change from green to vibrant colors of red, orange and yellow. Our diet changes from grilled meats and salads to soups and comfort food. Our clothing changes from light colors and fabrics to darker, heavier garments. Sweaters and boots are brushed off and ready to wear. Candles are lit, fireplaces burn, and our hearts prepare for the season of Thanksgiving, and the celebration of Christmas, or Hanukkah, and for other's just plain winter holidays. Several blogs are posting about change, and I love reading them. In my blog friend, Grey Like Snuffie 's post, she found new life and her post reminds me that change happens every day, that as old life dies away, new life is being formed. I was reminded of this as we buried our beloved Bob this past weekend. His life on earth is over, but, as a family we also spent time with the new life brought into our family. Our niece, Megan, has a new baby, Makena....

This evening, my home feels sweet and comfortable, even though I had to order pizza delivery for dinner and suitcases are still on the floor. I am safe. I am loved. I am warm. The past few days are filled with emotion, memories, love, and sadness. We said good bye to our dear Dad, Father-in-law, Grandpa. We reminisced over the many wonderful ways he loved us, he loved life, he taught, and he helped. Funerals are difficult, but they are also good. Good for the family to gather, to rejoice in the knowledge of our loved one going to be with our Jesus, to laugh and cry over a life well lived. A time for the family to connect, to love, to comfort, and to say "I love you" over and over...all in the same day, the same hour, the same moment. We all go back to our daily lives now. Remembering. We have big plans for Thanksgiving. Many, many of us will re-gather. And we will party. We will eat and we will rejoice. We will love, and comfort and say "I love you" over ...

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 This verse brings deep breath, sweet aroma, and the feeling of knowing that all is well in the world... in my soul... in my life. PEACE What a wonderful thing to have. During times of loss (like now) During times of not understanding (like then) During times when we don't know what to expect (like tomorrow) No trouble in my heart today. My God has it all under control. For more ABC's of the word, visit Grey Like Snuffie

We are completely loved and accepted completely. That is the chapter title this week and it is such good news! It is news that I have heard before, but news that I was glad to hear again. Lisa's story at the end of the chapter touched my heart...you know, the one where she woke up the morning after her prayer asking God to let her know that they were okay. The song in her head, that really was in her heart is awesome. I have had those times. Recently, I have had quite a few. The last few months (years maybe?) have been a little difficult. Some days I have wondered, "Does He REALLY love me?" And then some sort of confirmation will come along, He will let me know that we are okay and my heart sings. His love is gentle. His love is perfect. His love is comforting. And his love is absolutely unconditional. My blog time is shortened this week due the death in my family. My post is short, but honest and heartfelt. This week, I had a couple of conversations with a good...

Bob's life will always bring warmth to our hearts. Robert Lee Russell November 19, 1928 to November 3, 2008 Fred, Debbie, Bob (Dad) and Kate Happy days

Well, so much for a football game. My family received word late this afternoon that my father in law is in his last hours. He was moved to an end of life facility this week and his life is now ending. Thank you so much for the many prayers and please continue to pray them as we go to spend time with the family. I will be back next week.