(I started this post 2-14, but am still adding to it 2-15)

Yesterday afternoon my precious mother in law passed away. She fought her battle with ALS with such strength and courage. James told me today that he thought Gran and Jesus were talking in heaven this morning. It made my heart happy to picture Suzanne, healthy and renewed, sitting at the feet of Jesus talking with him. I am also encouraged by a sweet conversation I had with Gracie just a day or two ago where she was listing off all the people that would be there to meet her Gran when she got to heaven, my precious Daddy included.

I'm not sure we can ever be prepared for the death of someone we love so much, but I am so thankful for the hope we have in Christ.

As my sweet family was singing happy birthday to me tonight I could only cry and wish so badly that Suzanne was there with us. Suzanne was the perfect mother in law for me...I could not have hand picked a better one. She took care of me and loved me like I was her own. She cared for me after our car wreck in 2004 when I couldn't do much of anything for myself. She spent time with me, shopped with me, took pictures for me, loved me and loved our babies. She was the perfect Gran for Gracie and James. She loved them so much and loved spending time with them. She planned numerous beach trips and such a memorable Disney trip. The kids loved every bit of time they got to spend with their Gran.

I am still running the Mercedes half marathon on Sunday as a bell runner (raising money and support for the Bell center). I will be wearing pictures of two sweet boys, Nathan and Owen Hite, who received services at the Bell center. I will also be wearing a small picture in honor of Suzanne. She was excited about this race with me and I think it would make her smile to know that I was still running it. When I run I am reminded to be thankful to our Lord that I am able to run and that I should never take that for granted.

Every day is a precious gift. I am so thankful for the sunshine that we've had yesterday and today.

Suzanne was such a Godly women and what a wonderful example she led and amazing legacy she has left behind. We are so sad here, but rejoicing that she is healed and not hurting any more. Our God is good and gracious.