July 4th, 2011

Independence Day 2011 !! - It's raining outside, thunder and lightening all around and my heart is singing - why, it's strange but this is the first 4th of July that the house is empty, silent and different - it's my new normal - my heart isn't empty today - my heart is full !!! The memories of the 4th of July past fill it to the edges threatening to burst it open.

The 4th of July has always been one of our favorite holidays - D and I would have these massive parties, friends, family would gather, we would party, swim, he and I would cook, laughter, games, joy would fill the air, Ollie would sneak food off the table or from Jill, fireworks late into the night. Bo always always threw me into the pool much to the amazement and thrill of Ian. Life and times change.

Our sweet, sweet friend Bill has married and moved away he never left before 3 a.m., Bo and Lori didn't come to the last party much to the sadness and disappointment of everyone because they were out of town, D said it was never really the 4th without Bo around to tease and torment Ian and me, then last year we chose not to have a party because of Bo and Lori's Heaven date.

But today I'm not sad, today, I know that Jill and her family are making new memories, new adventures and new choices. That's what life changes do. Today I chose to stay home, remember the goodness of my life, the blessings of my today and the beauty of the people whom I love.

This week GOD has placed some amazing people in my path, these people have blessed me in ways that will carry me many, many days and weeks ahead. Some of these people have become part of my life since Bo was killed and some are new but one thing is certain, they are here to stay, they are part of the reasons GOD has filled my heart with singing today. THANK YOU JESUS for the blessings of inspirations and joy you send to me in my everyday Heroes !!

(MORE PICTURES AVAILABLE ON FACEBOOK - MARK CUMMINGS, DEAN BOOHER, MICHAEL BABER PAGES)

Amazing people on amazing journey's whose paths have crossed for a brief moment in time - GOD may or may not allow us to meet again this side of Heaven but if not we have been blessed to have touched each other as gently as a butterfly kiss -

Kindness goes a long way in healing broken hearts, wounded life's and restoring souls. This is your country as much as it is the men and women who fight for your freedoms - take control and give back to some to them - volunteer, pray, donate, offer assistance when you can - it is true a little goes a long way !!!