A barometer is an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure — the pressure tendency, in turn, can forecast short term changes in the weather.   Over and over again the Lord impresses upon my heart the power of gratitude to reshape and transform my heart.  I have come to believe that the degree to which

People have become accustomed to saying “Happy New Year” as an inaugural phrase to celebrate the beginning of a year, and of course this is a fitting expression, for we hope that life brings happiness in the forthcoming days…but what if it does not? I remember reading an article at the end of 2007 written

As I reflect on 2009 I am incredibly grateful.  I remember talking with some friends at the end of 2008 and mentioning how I had much to look forward to in 2009 which was a welcome gift on the heels of 2007 and 2008, wrought with suffering and sorrow.  In fact, I took the time

Losing Judson has meant facing a lifetime of slowly letting go…letting go of hopes, dreams, expectations, and even tangible reminders of my boy.  It is now primarily a gradual surrender within the natural flow of living — necessary and healthy, though still wrenching.  Most of the time the process is slow and occurs over time

My every breath has become integrated into a constant mixture of emotion: joy perpetually merged with the painful pangs of living with loss.  These oxymoronic emotions of joy and sorrow have fused to become the general state of my existence…rarely is one present now without the other.  Every spark of joy is coupled with the

Dear Judson, I miss you today. I still remember how excited I was the year you came into our home.  As your due date approached, I was full of anticipation.  And with my birthday just a few days before, I felt like I was getting the best gift I could ever receive!  My heart was

My dear Jud Bud, It is hard to believe 5 years ago today you made me a mama – the most blessed mama there ever could be.  One look into your already bright eyes and I knew, for the first time, the depths of a mother’s love.  Just moments after you entered this world, the

5 Years Ago Today… We were given the most precious Christmas gift!   Judson remains the most precious Christmas gift imaginable! Today we celebrate the gift of our little man, but also deeply grieve his absence. Happy 5th Birthday, Buddy Boo!  We are always missing you!! The stocking that held our precious Christmas gift is