Grandma Betty

Grandma Betty has been with Jesus since early Saturday morning. After years of fighting brain aneurisms and tumors, strokes, and much disability the Lord took her soundly in her sleep. She raised 7 children by herself and always gave more than she took. She was selfless and many stories shared over the past days have resembled just that fact. Although she has been in the nursing home for over 21 years, she was always full of life, smiles, and laughter. She received excellent care and love from her family there and it became her second home.

Thanks Grandma Betty for all the memories and laughs. Thanks for always fighting and being courageous through situations and events that are difficult for anyone to pull through. You will be missed greatly by our family but we find much peace in knowing that you are standing before Jesus. You can now walk, run, dance, and talk like you deserve. We are thankful for the promise of new bodies and lives. We love you Grandma. See you soon.

Many Memories

It has been such a long time since I have even looked at this blog but am now realizing that I have learned many things over the past few months and shared in many great times that are worth sharing. Here are some pictures with some memories of how faithful and good the Lord has been to us.


During the fall and winter my brother moved in with us as his marriage went through some changes. It was one of the hardest times Justin and I have faced together and one of most growth. We realized the importance and meaning of a Christian marriage. Although I am completely heartbroken for my brother and family, I am thankful for God's provision and love for us through this hardship. It is long from over, but much hope is in the future. It was a wonderful celebration ringing in the New Year with two of the men I love most in my life!


Justin cooked me quite the meal for Valentines Day and we enjoyed our first night as honeymooners (again). Brian moved out and we were able to have a nice night at home together. We ate well, had great conversation, and I was surprised with a Detroit Tigers jersey as a gift. There is not much more meaningful than that!



Although Michigan winters are horrible at times and last WAY TOO LONG, I continue to stand amazed at the beauty of God's sovereign creation. Here are some pictures we took at Holland State Park. The ice went out into the lake near the lighthouse and the smell of winter was all around. Yes, it was cold, very cold. I still think that it is near impossible to find a more beautiful sight than the Lake Michigan in the winter.



The Lord is good. His love endures forever. The Glory of the Lord shines through all the earth. He loves His people. These thoughts have really hit home for me over the past months. We have seen good, bad, and the ugly. God still remains faithful to us.