Every Day is a Gift

It amazes me how each day we just assume that we will wake up for the next day. We live each day looking forward to what is to come and not cherishing what we already have. Being pregnant, it is almost impossible not to think about the future and wish time would go by faster. I cannot wait to meet my son, feel less pregnant, and move on to the next phase of our family with Ryan. Last week I realized that this is not always what happens--today might be all we get.

Last Friday, Ryan and I were shocked to find out that Ryan's sister Nicole lost her husband Bill (our much loved brother-in-law) in a tragic work accident. They were so in love and happy together--an inspiration for us all. They were truly meant to be together. On October 9th, we were so excited to be present for their marriage. It was an amazingly beautiful autumn day, and they both seemed to glow in each other's presence. They spoke vows that brought tears to almost everyone present, and they made God a strong presence in their relationship. Only 12 days after their marriage began, and a couple of days after their return from their Hawaiian honeymoon, Nicole lost her soul mate. Here is a picture of the wonderful couple.

Please keep Nicole and family in your prayers as we all mourn Bill's death. The funeral and visitation were both overwhelming--so much support and love. Now that the planning is done and family has gone back home, the tough part of moving on with life begins. It seems that the world should stop for such pain, but yet it continues to move on. I pray, especially for Nicole and family, that peace rises to meet you in the mornings and that love surrounds you when you need it most.