WINTER IS NOT OVER!

We were teased with a taste of Spring!  You could just feel it and hear it!  It didn't last long, and we are having another round of cold weather.  I know after talking to my relatives in Illinois, I have nothing to complain about....they are still having single digit temperatures.....can't imagine having that kind of weather for an extended period of time!

Spring was one of mine and Pete's favorite times of the year!  We could sit on the porch for hours and talk about our dreams for the garden and flowers and of course, the anticipation of the return of our beloved hummingbirds....those little guys kept us entertained for hours.

I miss him so much....always....but there are certain times, it just hits you like you have been run over by a truck.....and you never know for sure what triggers those feelings or when they are going to come.  With Jennifer's birthday and the anniversary of her death coming up, these feelings just seem to be stronger.  I always had Pete to help get me through the bad days.  I just take it day by day and do what I can to keep their memory alive and to do something for others.  Kimberly and I have been working hard on items for the Jennifer Project bags....so glad that we are still keeping this project alive after eight years.  Jennifer spent so much time in the hospital, I know that she would love this project.   I will choose a bush or tree and plant it in her memory. 

Spring will soon be here and I am looking forward to the dark and dreary days of winter turning into beautiful colors and sounds.  God is good and He is good ALL the time!

2 of #48 WALKS

Since my first walk on this challenge, I have been pretty much homebound because of the ice and snow!  My driveway going up the hill is still ice and snow covered.

I still have to walk using a cane.  When I go grocery shopping, I always ride in one of the electric carts.  I hate doing this, but get tired easily when walking, and don't want to take a chance of falling!  Yesterday, my sweet nephew...Bobby...came over and took me to the grocery store and to do some errands.  When I got to the grocery store, I decided that I would not use the electric cart, choosing to walk and push the buggy instead.  I know that this doesn't sound like a big deal to most people, but it has been a couple of years since I have walked while grocery shopping.  These are baby steps for sure, but thanks to Alison's inspiration and encouragement, I walked!  YAY ME!

Our weather is going to be gorgeous and warm this weekend.  I will be under the bridge after church, helping feed the homeless.  I hope to get in another walk while there.

Taking baby steps, but trying!

ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!

It is hard to believe that it has been a year since I lost Pete!  At times, it seems like it was yesterday, then at other times, it seems so much longer.  The days turn into weeks and then before you know it, a year has gone by.  I miss him everyday.....when I get up in the morning, all day long and when I go to bed at night.  42 years is a long time to share your life with someone, and I am so grateful for those years....there were good times, as well as bad times....but we got through them.  I will cherish those memories forever and be ever so grateful that I will see him again.  I have peace in knowing that he is no longer miserable trying to get through the days, feeling so bad...but he kept trying.  He is now healthy and happy and is with our precious Jennifer and other loved ones.  How could I not feel at peace knowing that?

I have learned so much this past year, and am cetainly still in the learning phase with so much more to learn.  I have learned to do things for myself, that I never thought I could learn to do.  I have learned to be able to be alone and not let that upset me (I know that with God, I am never alone)....I am ever so grateful for my sister, Kimberly, who is my rock and my precious friends that help me get through the rough times.  I am grateful to have my sister-in-law, Barb....she became a member of this widow's club just two months before me.  It is good to be able to cry on the shoulders of each other and understand how it is.  I am trying hard to strenghten my relationship with God and to study His word more and have a better understanding.  I have taken on a challenge to get out and walk a little...which isn't easy, but as I have learned most things worth doing are not easy.  I am sure that with each walk, it will get easier.

Yes, today is a sad day to remember, but I am grateful for the memories.....they can't be taken away.  Pete was such a good hearted and caring person. 

Tell your loved ones that you love them and make sure they know that you mean it!

My First of #48 Walks

I finally did it!  My first walk of  #48 walks!  Thank you once again, Alison.  You are so inspiring.  I went to Gulph Gorge National Park....such a beautiful park in all seasons.  My walk was short, but sweet!  I wanted to go before the rain and winter weather that is predicted got here.  I am determined to go a little further with each one and since I started late, I have some catching up to do.  I am happy that I finally got out and began! Baby steps.....but steps!  LOL!