Blogging again

Its been so long since I've posted anything, I don't know if anyone checks my page anymore. But I decided its time to start again. The time since my last post has been one of joy and worry. Gains and losses. Elliott and all his medical concerns and hospital stays. Kayla having such a hard time after the C-section as well as the stresses of a sick baby.(If you want the details, her blog is a beautiful testament to hard yet happy times.) My dad failing and now "dying by inches" as my mom says. Keeping up with the ups and downs of the BC Vande Kraats families. Along with the demands of school, sometimes it felt like almost too much.

But it never was. God was faithful. Elliott continued to smile through all his pokes and fasts. Kayla cried but stayed strong and we grew to love Harley even more for his steady and calm nature. Elliott's now a smiley little guy who poops on his own! Scott and Margaret struggled with some important decisions but are safely moved to Iowa and he will go back to Dordt in the fall. Hopefully she will find work soon. Ryan and Steph found a home of their own in Aldergrove. Wow! Good good stuff. And we will all be together for some time this summer. That really makes me smile.

Dad is dying. It seems so cold and harsh but it is the sad truth. Mom is faithful and is tending to him at home. Hopefully we can spend some more time there this summer. Quick trips in March and for Father's Day were good but I feel pulled there. So far Dad hasn't had a lot of pain but just the last few days, he's been more uncomfortable. A new concern for all of us.

I read this and realize now focused I am on the family around me. My kids are going to totally GROAN about this but what has helped me stay calm is the sun room and my garden. Its is such a haven. Hank and I gave in finally and bought an espresso machine so things are even better. We are putting new flooring in tonight and then I can sit with a book or my crossword book, drink lattes (iced or hot), look at which ever perennial is blooming, watch the birds and rabbit and relax. Everyone should have one!