Marilyn’s Heart

He did Rise! Good morning! Happy Easter Sunday blog! I just want to share, the victory has already been won! Christ indeed, did conquer death, so that we can all have eternal life, everlasting. It humbles me beyond words that I could be loved that much. I never knew that kind of love, until “HE” opened my eyes! Praise God, Amazing Grace, that saved a wretch like me! Thank you Jesus, you’re perfect plan, is perfect! Have a wonderful and blessed day with friends and family! Love to all of you!❤️💜✝️💜❤️My second Easter without Denny! I am still breathing!🥰 I miss you!🥰

Good evening. Tuesday blog. Every Tuesday becomes a bigger blessing. The day set aside, no work, no appointments. Only my great grandson. Son of my first grandchild, a granddaughter. Before her work and after her work, I get some chatty time with her. I don’t care how old my grandkids are, always my babies. Every minute I spend with them is a gift. Great grandchildren, round three! Life is so busy, time, so precious. In August, she is giving me another great grandchild. My Tuesday date, will be a big brother and I am sure our helper. I thank God for my good health to be their helper. I never knew any of my great grandparents and my closest grandma, I was 11 when cancer took her. I am blessed beyond measure. The past two days have given me a lot of laughter. It is good for the soul. Thank you Lord! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening! Saturday night blog! It has been awhile. Believe it or not, sometimes I am at a loss for words, especially when emotion takes over! It’s called grief. Contrary to what some think and believe, even some who have been through it, think that time will remove grief completely. Why or how would that happen? Better yet, why would you want it to? When you have known great love, the kind that goes up and down and you continue, no matter what, to weather the storms. That cannot be wiped away. In 42 years, we had many storms. At the end of the day, forgiveness was always center stage. If you are angry, I beg you, do not go to sleep like that. Grab their face lovingly, remember when you looked in his or her eyes so long ago? You were willing to keep that feeling, no matter what. Feelings are great, commitment is greater! You really cannot go anywhere after you lose your spouse or watch people without feeling the grief again. In a positive way, of course. I do not dwell or feel sorry for myself! I am not unique. All of us will be there at some point. If you are married, one will bury the other. Hard facts of life. I cannot say it enough, get over yourself and cherish all of your moments together! Even the bittersweet ones. Make memories that will make you smile long after they are gone. It truly helps with the grief! But, nothing will erase it. To try and do that, would take away their existence. I want our memories alive. I only think of all of the wonderful ones! Grief is emotional enough, without dwelling on the not so good memories! Memories of forgiveness are good ones. Love lives on. In our children, in our grandchildren and most definitely in our great grandchildren. Gods design of our minds and what it can hold, is miraculous. Give your burdens to Him. God is good and He has been so good to me through all this pain the past 8 years. I would not trade one moment, that made us, our love and our family stronger. I was in Sylvania today, at The Village Candy Shoppe. Soooo cute! The owner has been a widow for 30 years. She said, it still hurts. I was in there before, she remembered me. When I left, she said, if you ever need to talk. I almost started crying. I want to say that to others that are hurting in the same way. Encouragement! It’s a wonderful word! Not just for grievers, for anyone. Let us lift each other in a positive way, with positive words. Nobody has to like what we choose, do or say. If it is positive for us, others should keep their negativity to themselves. Build each other up, not down. This includes family. None of us will ever be perfect. Do not give up. Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good day. Thursday blog. Rainbows are everywhere, if you are looking for them. I have so many Rainbows in my life, I would not be able to put them all in one spot. Rainbows don’t just happen. Gods design, raining and sun, produces such a colorful gift! A promise from God and a gift. I just go crazy with the beauty in the sky. All around, really. Everything I see is a masterpiece. My family, each a masterpiece from God. Each so unique! When I am watching my great grandson, he is such a gift, at such a time in my life! My little rainbow. My promise. His personality is very vibrant and colorful! I am so thankful for my health. I run around the house with him, like I am a 1 year old. We make each other laugh. We all have Rainbows, we just need to recognize them. It was hard to see Rainbows when Denny was sick, so sick. I still struggle on occasion. I do know how to take care of it. Taking care of self can be a struggle we don’t even know we are struggling with. In this past year, since Denny passed, I am catching up on taking care of my body appointments! I am in the process of extensive dental work. The pain of it all will be worth it. So, I am grabbing Rainbows, even if costly, will be worth it. I am not used to putting myself first. Good thing my kids keep me on my toes! I don’t want to lose any Rainbows! They do make us smile with happiness! Don’t just get caught up in the beauty of it all. Let’s remember the miracle of it all! God is truly so good! He humbles me everyday. How can I not believe His miracles and promises, when He holds me together everyday. He wipes my tears so I can see straight, and shows me new Rainbows! Miraculous! Everyday, I ask please don’t let go of me. I’m keeping my eyes on God and all of my Rainbows! He will show me how to keep taking care of myself! Thank you Lord! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good day! Thursday blog! I have not blogged since February 28th. I believe that is my longest period of time! I have been extremely tired. That is not something that I experience very often. I don’t like it when it happens. As soon as I sat down, my eyes wanted to close. I fell on the ice at the park, on the second day, my back tightened. Ibuprofen and a week off, I am back to walking with no pain! Thank you Lord! I started a weight lifting program online. I like it. Now, my grief meter. I did not believe it possible in the beginning, when everything inside you and out of you are just raw nerves exposed! The least little sound or something you cannot remember, feels like electrocution. Like everything that you knew in your head and heart died also. An emptiness that cannot even be explained. If you try to, you just fill with tears. Even now writing about it, my eyes keep filling. Some said, you are young, give it time. My heart and mind said, no way do I want another person in my life. Not any person. Then 8 months passed and just like that, an old friend. Over 50 years we have known each other. And, that is what it is, friendship. It is great to laugh again, about anything. So you might believe doors are forever shut and then, one opens. So, my tears are not as often. Certain things still trigger. I love Denny Reed forever. I will see him again. In the mean time, it’s ok to smile, it’s ok to laugh. If I ever feel that depression could be coming, I do not give in. I remember beautiful memories of our love and many years together and I can smile for the life I had with Denny! When I look at our children and grandchildren, all extensions of our love and life together. If there were times when things were not perfect, it does not matter anymore. I think only of our best times of love and our family. Even our little great grandson, he likes the iPad, he sits there looking at his great papa that he did not know. The circle of life moves forward,wether we like it or not. I want to be a positive force in my families lives! I miss Denny every day. Laughing and smiling are ok, even essential. God given emotions. I lean on Him always! God is good, and so is life! It is our choice. I choose joy and happiness always! I love all of you. Your love and support of my family and myself have been most appreciated. We might not see each other, but we know we are there. Have a wonderful rest of your day! God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday blog. I didn’t know the words. I just knew what it did. Global Positioning System! Sounds important! Big words, even bigger, what it can do. When we went to Myrtle Beach on the tail end of a hurricane, what a mess. GPS constantly rerouting us, in the dark. Scary! God took care of us. When I am ready to write something, I would like for it to always be something that I learned along Denny’s and my bumpy road. It has nothing to do with how much you love each other. It’s what your inner GPS is telling you. Rerouting, rewiring, sparks from frayed wires. Let it go and these things can make a big mess, a fire. A mess that takes time and special attention to clean it up. I know some, I was one, just sweep it under the rug, nobody will know. One fire drifting on top of another fire, what a mess! The trouble, nobody thinks of the mess, when they just jump on a choice! Consequences can turn into a life long battle to get over. The regrets that come with all of that can tear you apart, mind body and soul. Nobody can take care of you and the lifelong turmoils that live in us. You can point fingers all you want. In the end, you and only you are responsible for the choices you made. Don’t blame your parents, your teachers, your spouses, siblings. We can go on and on. Once I learned that, a real healing took place in my life. Not perfection. But, after coming through Parkinson’s and what it did to each of us individually and especially Denny, watching everyday, how it took him by bits and pieces! It took him fast, his progression was quick. I believe my family and I learned a lot along Denny’s journey. Our GPS took us to a deeper love, forgiveness, care and compassion, for him and each other. In the end, nothing else matters. Not who is president, not the neighbors and what you think of them. Denny and I both suffered consequences from choices. Running on feelings will get you in trouble every time. 45 years I spent with him, our GPS constantly working to show us the right route to take. Our GPS was and still is God. He will take you to all of the right places, all the time. I really want nothing else! Just God and His GPS. It keeps me grounded! Stop and think. What kind of war zone is my choice going to make? Be kind please, especially to yourself. You are worth it! The grass has never been greener anywhere else than your own yard! God is good. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. A very short Wednesday blog. The nicer temperatures are bringing my morning walking, back in to play! My favorite time! I have four major doctors in my life that take care of four major things where my mind and body are concerned! All four have told me I am an inspiration to them! Brought me to tears! I ran across this inspiring quote today. It is what I want to share tonight. God is good. He brings the change! Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening! Friday blog! I have been so tired, every night. I get plenty of sleep. My day does start very early, wether I walk or work that day! When my eyes open, I am up. My days are full, wether it’s family, working or working out! This poem is beautiful and true. I might have shared it already. If I did, it is worth sharing again. Just beautiful! I know without a doubt Denny is with our Lord, in Heaven! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

This video popped up on FB. I thought it fitting for the poem. Things bring sadness and tears, but, also a memory attached to every picture! Some our Myrtle Beach trip. ❤️I love you Denny❤️and forever missed! ❤️Angel Wings!❤️👼🏻❤️

Good morning! Tuesday blog! I am two days late with this one! This is not complaining, this is observation. Who doesn’t love Valentines Day. It has always been my favorite. I love red hearts. My favorite color, my favorite shape.❤️When I had my first born, the Dr. said February. I prayed, please let it be Valentines Day. And so he did arrive on Valentines Day. I made him a heart cake one year. He wanted a B-day cake, not a heart. I did not do that again. So at our house it was always a Birthday party- family time. The B-day was the priority with a theme. This was our second Valentines Day without Denny. I was very emotional on Sunday. I spent the afternoon at our sons house with family. Pizza and his favorite cookie. Any day with family is a great day! Like filling a gas tank. I cannot be running on empty. Thank you Lord! Well, the snowstorm is here like predicted! All of my kiddos are home safe. In light of being a widow now, Valentines Day seems very small in comparison to not having Denny with me. All of the Valentine cards Denny gave me over the years, very small. Denny was the Valentine, not the card! Cards are great, they say a lot. I would much rather hear his voice again. Everything has its proper place in time. All wonderful. I love all special occasions as much as the next person. Do not get them mixed up. If you still have that one special person in your life, tell them how special they are. That’s the gift. Each other! For me, Valentines Day is my sons B- day, nothing else. No balloon or flower will bring your loved one back. Cards are nice, having your family, #1 nice. God is still #1 goodness! Have a wonderful day! If you have to be out there, be safe. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Wednesday blog. My Denny was a solid gold oldie, before he was old enough to be one. He definitely was old school in many areas. He just did not see any reason to change and move forward! Some things worth it, many things not. Oldie, Doo Wop, old country music. He had a flip phone that he liked. I thought he did good on the computer with FB. Bowled his whole life, when bowling alleys moved forward to automatic scoring, he did not like it. In some ways it was fun and refreshing. I liked to tease him about it. He was the secretary for our long time league and many others, all by hand, pen and paper, calculator and old fashioned type writer that needed ink cartridges. When his broke down, it was not easy to replace. The many titles he had for the things he was involved in and worked at to make extra money, that he always spent on us, taking care of his families needs. That was very important to him. He was a good son, leader in school, in sports, husband, father, Policeman, accepted the Lord along the way, Christian, Papa, great Papa, bowler, umpire, summer vacation fisherman. Above all, his family will always remember how he worked tirelessly to provide for his family and did not tell us no, unless he really had to. Whatever he tackled, it was with great passion. I know our children would agree. He was driven in many areas. A force to be reckoned with. Even when he bowled two perfect games, cannot go any higher than 300. He would find something wrong, not perfect enough. The first time I saw him bowl, I was amazed. I had only seen bowlers on TV. He is sooooo missed in so many ways! He had mellowed so much over the years. Please hear me when I say this with love. Do not wait until sickness or tragedy come your way to appreciate what’s right in front of you. He did, he did not know how to express it. We knew, we saw in thousands of ways. I have not tired of talking about him. He always surprised me in many ways, birthdays and anniversaries. Now he is a child of God, in heaven with his new name, Angel Wings! I miss him in a different way everyday. I have to smile through the tears in remembrance of him. Everything I have left has his mark of what a beautiful and wonderful soul he was and now at true peace. I just wanted him to know how much he was loved and appreciated by all of us, friends as well as family! He was a well respected man. I believe he handled his illness with more grace than many others could of. We never know. Hold tight to God, He will see you through. That’s what I told him, he agreed! I miss him so much. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good morning. Monday blog. In a world when it seems everyone and everything has gone mad! Did anyone ever think, for a moment, that we would have to social distance from our closest of family members! I think back to when it started, last spring. I thought all of our holidays and special occasions would be spent together. Supporting each other through our toughest of times, seeing that empty chair where their father use to sit. Being alone in my room thinking about all of our past everything’s together! Our son was over and I started talking about Easter. He started talking about Social Distancing. I said, not from your families. But, that is what they were saying! Of course my human mind and heart felt, how am I going to get through these “firsts”on my own? Almost one year later, all of the specials still took place! Do I miss what I always considered normal, yes I do. Mom and I live together, we have not hugged or kissed. I am the one leaving the house, going back and forth, out in the public. I would not want her to get anything. My kids and my sister hug me. Grandchildren too. Rules on kissing and hugging, basic signs of love. It makes me cry! I know I am not alone in these basic human feelings. So, I turn to God continually, His promises are true, for me and my family! So thankful to have my great grandson every week. He loves hugs! It is hard to follow these rules in a hurting world. A world that needs love. I have to tell myself, don’t sweat the small stuff. We all still love each other. We are allowed to come and go with masks! I hope and pray that common sense leads the way in these areas. As always, be safe, stay safe. Have a great Monday, as you start your week. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Thursday blog! My second anniversary without my Denny!! Would of been 44 years, since yesterday, I broke down a few times! Like little waves washing over me. Dry my eyes and carry on. I did work today, that was helpful! At the moment, I am fine! My grief is changing, crying is softer, no sound, over as quickly as it started. When grief was new, it was like hysteria, no control. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. I truly like the statement, grief is love with no where to go. Makes perfect sense to me. Of course the healer of this kind of pain is God, if we let Him. I know this to be true. I see it, I feel it. Gods touch. Denny is in the arms of God. That is so comforting to think of. I have a couple of images to share and a new collage of us. Goodnight. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday blog. Most of you know by now, I lost my Denny one year ago to Parkinson’s and Dementia. Two years or more ago I started writing poetry and blogging as a form of therapy for myself. I wrote this poem two months after he passed away! I would like to share it tonight. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

I knew Jesus hand was on Denny from the start, Jesus knew in 2020, we would have to part. But, oh my aching heart! Seven years you struggled, that’s a very long time! I didn’t want to let you go, after all, you were mine! God had very different plans, as you grew weaker, I became stronger, then Jesus took you from my hands! Many came to say goodbye, love, surrounded your bed. Our love couldn’t stop that last breath, when the angels came instead. Seven years just flew away, like sand in an hour glass, as we all held you in our arms, it was time to see you pass. That last heartbeat, when you took your last breath, now all I feel is like I am crying to death! All that has transpired since then, has become a reality, I knew all along, I could not choose self pity! Denny would not want that for any one of us, he wants us to have great faith, because Jesus is who we trust! As hard as it is to face each new day, tomorrow is two months since you went away! I love you forever, I miss you even more, it just has to stay this way, till Jesus knocks at my door! The End……….This Thursday, February 4th, 2021 we would have been married 44 years! Here’s to you! My sweetheart in heaven!

Good evening. Thursday blog! I was talking to my granddaughter today, I have been so wrapped up in thinking about Denny and his death anniversary date that I forgot all about my own special anniversary. January 3rd, 2016, I was one year clean, this past January 3rd, 2021, I am six years clean from gambling addiction! Am I proud that? You better believe it. For those of you that cannot even imagine how that could happen. It’s called living a lie. I do not have a problem with anybody doing what they enjoy. When it consumes you and nothing else, including people matters to you except gambling, you have a problem. No, I did not seek help on my own. Denny was already ill and I was gone way to much. He expressed his concern to our daughter. When I say I became stronger as Denny illness advanced, it is because of recovery and the hard work I put in to be the right kind of wife and the best caregiver. Recovery is the best thing I have ever done for myself, besides excepting Jesus. I rededicated my life to Jesus March 2016. That is also how and why I started cleaning houses, to pay back debt that I had created! I did not think it was possible to stop. My therapist was brand new, an addict himself. He started the gambling recovery program. I was the first one to enter, finish, stay in, complete and still clean to this day. I am still in the program and still talk to that therapist. COVID took care of our group, that I miss very much. I tell everyone, don’t wait until you are 63 to clean up your act! It is to late when you are dead. So, my poetry, my blogging, my journaling, my walking, are all positive behaviors I put in place of all of the negatives. I soon found out, my whole life, I was just swapping one addiction for another. I am not perfect and will never be. I choose a positive life and not let anything take me backwards, including losing my husband! God is good! My strength comes from Him, do not ever think you are not worth it, you are! Nothing wrong with having fun, do not let it take over your life. I thank and praise God for a daughter that was not afraid to use tough love on her mom, and stand up for her dad. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Memories of Denny and Marilyn 40th Ruby Anniversary

Memories of Denny and Marilyn 40th Ruby Anniversary

— Read on marilynsheart.art.blog/2021/01/27/memories-of-denny-and-marilyn-40th-ruby-anniversary/

FB Memories From January 27, 2020

FB Memories From January 27, 2020

— Read on marilynsheart.art.blog/2021/01/27/fb-memories-from-january-27-2020/

Good evening. Wednesday blog. I was not going to write tonight. Facebook, as you know, always shows your memories from years past. My story tonight will be what transpired throughout the day of January 27th, 2020. Good night. God bless. ❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Tuesday January 26, 2020 and Wednesday January 27, 2020 blog! I cannot stop saying it. One whole year. I did not think it even possible. Yet, here we are. 2:00am January 25th to 4:10pm January 27th. Roughly 60 hours of suffering all the way around. Longest 3 days ever! Having your ear on the chest of the one you loved for 45 years, waiting for their heart to stop beating. I wanted mine to stop, time stood still. I knew his journey was complete when I looked at his face. All of that pain and suffering was gone in an instant, and ours of grief was just beginning. Going and taking care of every detail to honor our loved one. At the end you wonder how you got through it all. For me, it’s God. I truly am a train wreck without “HIM!” I will be completely honest tonight. I was a train wreck today. Crying started as soon as I opened my eyes at 3:00am! As my morning went on with weather and constant thoughts of Denny. I took my grandson to practice, he said my day was like a domino effect. One thing just kept knocking another thing over. At the moment I’m still crying. Off and on all day. I feel drained! Like it just happened yesterday. It is the anniversary timing. I won’t stay this way. I do sleep in the same room that it all took place in. I would not change it. I can feel whatever way I want in here! No one looking. One more day to go. I do not want to be blindsided again. I’ll be spending the day with Lukey, showing him pictures and telling him about his great papa Reed! Thank you all for your prayers and support always, for our family! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Monday’s blog. Denny passed on the 27th of January 2020. Toss in Leap Year. The number anniversary is Wednesday. His passing on a Monday is 52 weeks today. I cannot even wrap my mind around that. If you are friends with our daughter, she has been posting beautiful, memory pictures of her dad! Date wise his death is the 27th. So moving into the 2nd day, the rattle in his chest never left, 102 fever for that 48 hour period! His heart rate was in the 140’s. We thought cardiac arrest would take him. His organs were starting to shut down. By then, I was asking God, please take him, don’t let him suffer. In that time frame, lots of company coming and going meaning well. Lots of cousins and other family. It was all exhausting, yet God was holding me together. I felt like a robot. Everybody wants everybody to get some rest and your scared to death to shut your eyes! One whole year later, I still hold my breath when I think of his last. There will never be enough words to describe what it felt like. Two lives that spent 45 years together was suddenly one life left alone. The memory of it will never go away! As painful as it all was and still is, my strength comes, real strength, from the Lord himself. Having gone through recovery myself while Denny was sick, helped me tremendously. Death is a fact of life. We do not have to like it, at some point you have to accept. I vowed losing Denny, I would not let this destroy me. What good would that do? What purpose would it serve? As painful as grief is, it is part of me now. You have to make peace with it. God loves me and he loves Denny. We are in two different worlds for a short time. Heaven and Earth. One day it will all be the same. What a day that will be, when my Jesus I shall see. God is still good! To be continued! Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday blog. Friday morning, January 24th, 2020, Denny woke up with a fever. Today’s FB memory, asking for prayer. The nurse came, started antibiotics. He had pneumonia again. I don’t think it ever left him. He did not look good. I was afraid for us to go to sleep that night. There was three of us that night. God, Denny and I. I held his hands and prayed, telling him how much I loved him and how much the kids loved him! I woke at 2:00am Saturday the 25th to hear Denny drowning in his tube feed. I called his nurse, I swear he flew here he got here so fast. I ran in the living room and got the oxygen and everything he needed. I called the kids. The phone call I knew they were all waiting for and did not want to hear. Denny remained unresponsive. To be continued! Thank you Jesus for being with us! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Friday blog! What draws people to one another? My Denny met me with a traffic ticket. I ran into the back of a car. I changed jobs and he found me working at Dunkin Donuts! I thought he was to old, he thought I was just right. It did not take us long to fall in love. With falling in love, I saw a person with such a giving heart. I called it, a heart of gold. I saw how much he loved his children, and then, I saw him love my son as his own and made sure he became his own and together we added one more. I always wanted four children and all of a sudden, there was! As the years went by we had our struggles. As time goes the body changes, the skin changes, hair a different color. If you truly love this person, when you look in their eyes, it’s the same eyes you fell in love with. As age takes over and illness sets in, all you see is their heart and soul. I cannot stress it enough, look in their eyes and see the person you fell in love with. Whisper in their ear, I still want only you! Believe me, it beats any diamond ring, box of candy, or perfume. Solid gold words! Make God the third person in your relationship. I am so sorry it took me so long to learn. We get no do overs! Make this moment count! Denny and I found out all about love, caring and compassion in illness and caregiving. A whole new way of loving, accepting and letting go, when you don’t want to. Praise God for what you have been given, and above all tell them. We are not mind readers! If I could have Denny back for a moment! I would look in those blue eyes and see my forever! Don’t wait till tomorrow! Good night! God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Wednesday blog. How am I blessed, let me count the blessings, one by one. Living in the country, many of our friendships were cousins or close neighbors with children you went to school with us. Funny how those bonds remain. I count my cousins like siblings and friends! Children make friends or shy away! Siblings become friends. Belonging to many things generates friendships. Many school friends stay lifelong friends, with social media, reconnecting is very sought after. When we bought our house in East Toledo, the street was beautiful, full of neighbors with children. They all walked to the school together. We felt safe. That did eventually change over the years. I met a wonderful friend on that street, 42 years ago. She remains one of my closest friends. God blessed us abundantly through her and her family. She took us to her church, where we went to Sunday school and made more friends. Denny and I were lead to Christ, through friends and the teaching of Christ at that church. I grew up differently. Going to that church and having those friends, we learned of a personal relationship with Jesus. It made all the difference in Denny’s and my life! We took some wrong turns. In the end, Christ stood there waiting for us to come back to him. It made all the difference as we started the Parkinson’s journey that lead Denny to heaven. All the difference for me also as a wife- caregiver. Jesus was close beside us every minute of every day. I know He watched over us while we slept. In the end, Denny’s face glowed with eternal peace, which passes all understanding. Don’t ever think that Gods love is not big enough. It is! So, my sister, cousins, extended family, childhood friends, school friends, church friends, brothers and sisters in Christ and all of you on social media, where most of you are anyway. I know you are here. I know you heard our need and prayed for us continually. COVID-19 came right after Denny passed at home. Just when I was starting to get back in the ballgame of life, life stopped. My faith says, God has His reasons for my family and I to do all year on our own. In October I had COVID. I do not question God. For those of you that are my newest friends, my husband had Parkinson’s for seven years. I eventually became his caregiver. He passed away last January, next Wednesday will be one year. Knowing that family and friends are lifting us up in prayer is very comforting. I thank you all, and appreciate you all, for praying us through this tough journey. God being the very best friend. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Let me apologize first, this is lengthy. Denny is worth the read! Good morning. Monday blog. I have posted so much in almost 2 years, about Denny, our family and our journey through Parkinson’s and it’s many levels of change into Denny’s life and ours. Like an intruder in the middle of the night. Taking him and our very breath away! I have tried to explain how brutal this disease was to Denny and us, his family. Every day was different, ups and downs, highs and lows, for him and his family. So many hospital stays and care facilities! That he hated, I might add! Pneumonia over and over, high fevers that took him down. He did not like it, he did not complain. 7 years of all of that, and I did not complain. I would do it again in a heartbeat, if he came back to us! He fought so hard, but in the end, Parkinson’s won. Thats not meant in a good way. Sooooo, in August of 2019, I came home from walking and he was down, high fever. The beginning of the end. Feeding tube and nursing facility. He finally came home with a hospital bed. When you are caring for a loved one, a spouse, 24/7 you can see easily, they are slipping away. Of course no one wants to see or admit that, not even me. It looked like we were giving up. Not so, we were gearing up to help him fight. I made that dreaded call to hospice. There comes a time when you have to accept what cannot be changed and give the best possible care there is for as long as there is! Denny lived 2 months after hospice came. I still do not have enough words for the love, care and dedication that was given to Denny and all of us. Once they started, everything we needed was at our fingertips. People and supplies. Along the way as a person gets worse, they have a main nurse. She knows who she is. She took care of Denny like her own father. We love her and their whole group. They were amazing. So, we pressed on, Denny had some good days, mostly different days. January 25th, our son in laws B-day, 2:00am, Denny’s heavenly journey started. He remained the same for 48 hours, with the most horrible sound of fluid in his lungs. How he hung on that long, the grace of God is all I can say. We played music, we all took turns around the clock, I sang hymns and said the 23rd Psalm over and over. At 4:10pm on January 27th, 2020, our grandsons B-day, Denny took his last breath. Even when you know it’s happening, the shock waves are tremendous. I could not breathe. Our daughter hugged me and said mom, breathe! I didn’t want to. Time was standing still. It seemed like an eternity, yet only minutes! A day we will never forget. We love him and miss him so much. So, we are one week away from that anniversary. The kids and I are meeting to eat together to remember that wonderful man we were given for 76 years. I have a new level of crying. Continue my love to Rest In Peace! Happy 51 weeks in heaven. Tatoos are not for everyone. I was one of those. When I saw this, I wanted it and I am not sorry. Look at the detail.🌹⏱🌹God is still good and faithful. Have a great day. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Friday blog! I am sorry, just have not been in a writing mood. With working again, I am tired early. With walking, it’s a good balance. Four family Birthdays in January. Now with little Rosco, five family members have passed in January, even though little Rosco was a doggie, he was family. So now it is a bittersweet month. My dad has been gone 15 years yesterday. Where does time go? On the 27th, it will be one whole year without Denny! In the beginning, I could not believe my Dad got so sick so fast, congestive heart, COPD, full time oxygen. Then I couldn’t believe Denny was passing in the same month. My mom lost her sister in January also. But, birthdays we always look forward to. A happy time of memories. Then again, death anniversaries bring all kinds of memories also, all of the good ones before their passing. Even little Rosco gave us plenty of memories in his short life. You have to be a doggie person to understand my mentioning him with our human family! I am sure for all of us, we all have our bittersweet months. Once again I get to share how God holds us up with His promises. I do not know how people do it without God. I still have so much sadness! Tears are less! Still moving forward without guilt. One thing I am thankful for, the big queen size bed we slept in had to be removed for the hospital bed. I did not want that big bed for me. I have a nice twin bed, that I love. It also made extra room for all of the extras I enjoy! Sewing and crafts. So, as my family gets through this first month of the new year that brings so many memories! We will hold each other up always! I cannot end this without saying again, grab your loved ones tight, even the fur babies! You do not know what this new year holds for any of us! God is good and in control of all, even when it looks hopeless! Its not! Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening! Thursday blog. Short and the truth! Give thanks always, no matter what the circumstance! God knows! You do not need to tell God what to do. Do all with a grateful heart. Do not forget, God is the way maker! Trust in Him! Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday blog! Here we are, another week down. Tomorrow, 50 weeks in heaven. Two more and that dreaded one year anniversary. I still cannot conceive one week, let alone one year. Fastest, yet, the slowest! So many emotions, all over the place. Just facing this one day. Like I said, our grandsons 16th B-day. He will be getting his drivers license. All very exciting things to look at that day, as our minds fill with memories of our loved ones beautiful life gone way to soon. I grab Gods promises quickly. I let the words wash over me, and one beautiful day, we will all be together praising God. Only beautiful, beautiful, everything, everywhere. Oh what my Denny must be seeing everyday. Happy 50 weeks in heaven tomorrow! We love you and miss you forever! We love you Lord! Be with us in the days ahead!! Bittersweet! Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Friday blog. I have loved cleaning houses for a long time! I consider it satisfying work, that I can look at when I am done and be happy that I did something for the families I clean for! I am in better shape and health than ever before when I was younger. Any of you out there knows that when a spouse passes, widow or widower, bills grow and mount and do not stop. Most times growing like a mountain with medical bills! It can all be very overwhelming! So, I have started back to cleaning! Slowly. I have 4 houses and 1 business! I am looking for 2 more houses! Every other Monday and Thursday. Tuesday’s are reserved for my special little man, Wednesdays are for appointments and Saturdays are my free day. I’m 68, time to be an adult, disciplined and determined to take care of these large loose ends! No one is at fault, it is what it is! Working hard will give me a sense of accomplishment! If I want to get ahead of everything, I have to work and save like everyone else! It is what makes the world go around! Right? I have watched my kids and grandkids be disciplined in their lives and work ethic! Denny was one of them. He worked so hard, for his family. I think he would be proud of me working again, to get ahead of debt. So God in heaven, please keep me strong and healthy to get ahead! The glory will be yours Lord. God remains good, no matter what we face. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Thursday blog. It’s been a few days. I can finally say, I actually have days that I don’t cry. When it first happened and I realized it, I felt guilty, like I did something wrong. I know that is not true! I was called from a childhood friend, that I have known for over 55 years. We are friends and it is nice! He said I could say that. That’s it! So grief is changing, taking on a different shape, so to speak. I will miss my husband for as long as I live. More than half of my life with one man. A very special one at that! I am not happy that he passed on our grandsons B-day, yet as I think about it, having his B-day to concentrate on will keep us busy and we can share special B-day memories! That’s my goal, some happiness that day! God is with us and remains our go to in these very troubled times! God is good. Grab your friends and family as close as you can in these times, if not, let’s use our devices more for good and loving moments! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Monday blog. No resolutions here! That’s the past! I take one day at a time. I plan ahead on paper. I like a visual guide. Crossing off each thing as it comes and goes. Each day has enough problems without running ahead of yourself! You cannot conquer tomorrow when today is still here! Running ahead can cause anxiety, loss of sleep., you know, we have all been there! I want to believe I learn from all things that have touched my life. Be fearless. Do not let anyone make you feel less than what God has made, with His plans for you! His plans for you are already set in stone. Be still and know that He is God! I tell everyone, do not wait till you are 63 to do something good and healthy for change in your life. My weight loss, even with surgery was not an overnight success. It was trial and error. Joint replacements, surgeries, Denny’s illness and other problems always set my walking backwards. I did not give up. My family gave me tough love to get help for my problems and addictions. In the beginning, I did not want to do it. It all sounded hard and impossible. One day at a time, baby steps. You have to in the end, do it for you. No one else can do it for you. Walking, I do not care what temp it is, has helped me in so many ways, not just weight and inches. I did walk today. I walked at Pearson yesterday to squeeze in 3 miles. I took another cleaning job at a business! If you you want it, you will get it done! Of course God is my constant helper and guide for all. If it’s wrong, He will show me. Facing this past year without Denny, sounded impossible, then came the pandemic. We faced all of our firsts without him and without each other! We are all still breathing, smiling, also hurting, but keep moving forward. Denny always wanted the best for his children and myself. So I dedicate myself healthy wise and positive wise to honor him! He would never want us to go backwards in pain! Pain, illness, and, death, we all know is part of life! We all know that these are facts of life and we will face something at some point in time and it’s called the circle of life. Praise God in all of His glory. God always remains good. Trust in Him. Have a fantastic rest of your day. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Thursday blog. No, I am not going to make it till midnight! Denny and I were not big on going out on New Year’s Eve. So, I would fix us a little buffet in the kitchen and we would nibble throughout the evening. At midnight Sparkling Grape Juice, watch the ball and bed! I want to thank all of you who take the time to read and follow me. It means a lot that all of you care for my family and I, and everything we have faced. I love all of you, I pray for and care about all of you! God is good, no matter what we face. My family and I faced it together! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good morning. Wednesday blog. As January is coming quickly, thoughts of this past year are ever present in my mind! I can’t turn it off. To think of not seeing you for a whole year, seems impossible. Yet, here we are. Waking up everyday for 42 years, next to your spouse, opening your eyes and seeing them first. Waking to a smile and an I love you, that special person, telling you to have a wonderful day. Asking you, is there anything you need? I would answer, only you! Then I hear Gods very strong and loving words, Marilyn, I am here and I see you. Lean on me, you will make it. My days will never be as they were. No I love you’s at bedtime, or when I open my eyes! Yet, I know in my heart I am loved! It’s just invisible wings hugging me. Only God himself can touch a soul. Denny came very close. When you know what the other one is thinking, feeling, wanting. It is a special connection, that grows ever stronger, everyday, because time has weathered you. Storms keep coming, knocking you down. Your vessel is being tossed all over the sea of life! Just hold on. God will steer you home. There you were given a new body, a whole body. Your eyes see nothing but bliss! You can stand and run and smile, for all of your burdens are lifted. To all of you who have your special person, wife, husband, partner, which ever one describes where you are. Hold onto it with all your might. Don’t think you have all of the time in the world, you don’t. I still believe with all of my heart, to love and be loved, is one of Gods greatest gifts to us. Hold it tight, cherish it forever. It can be gone, in the blink of an eye! So thankful for memories! I love you and miss you, Denny, forever, until I see your blue eyes again! To all of you, have a wonderful day! God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Monday blog. Sharing today’s post tribute to how many weeks it’s been. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday blog. With every passing day, every first holiday and special days, we know January is coming. When you left. Just 4 weeks away! When it came time last January, to make the plans! Our youngest daughter said, I am going to speak at Dads funeral. At first, I thought, oh my, how will she ever get through it. God spoke to me, loud and clear. That’s her father, why wouldn’t she want to honor him like that. I became supportive. Then God said again, he is your husband, honor him! That was that! Being a teacher, our daughter plans ahead. Me, I work best under pressure. I got ready early for the funeral. I sat down and started to write. Telling myself, you cannot be late! 15 papers in the trash and finally. I would like to share it with all of you tonight. A letter of him and my love letter to him. I am sorry, it is lengthy. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Denny Reed loved Jesus and Family, Old school all the way, Doo Wop, some country, The Old Rugged Cross, Amazing Grace, What A Friend We Have In Jesus. Denny was dedicated, an over comer, driven, kind, a helper, non judger, no judgement. He loved you kids and grandkids, he was not a big talker. Everyone thought him honorable. Last night was a testimony to that. Now you all know what a wonderful husband, I was blessed with, a father you were all blessed with, a papa who showed love all the time. Lucas will know his wonderful great papa. Parkinson’s robbed all of us, but, not more than it took him from us with a vengeance. God is bigger than Parkinson’s. The battle has already been won, you brave soul. I was blessed to take care of you and honored to care for you. I held his hands every night until he fell asleep. Never did he tell me more of his love, than when he became ill. Fear was put to rest after he knew he was going home to be cared for. It is his wish and my wish, that everyone learn from this experience. Life is short, it is not fair, only the promises of God stand. Denny suffered, so did Christ to pave a way for us. Denny forgave always, as Christ forgave him. Remember him, the cop, the bowler, the umpire, and always your dad, your papa and great papa to Lucas. He loved us, no doubts. He is all of that and more in heaven! So long my Denny!

My Dearest Denny, thank you for all you gave to your family and everyone you met. Thank you for the ticket you gave me 45 years ago. The cop and the waitress. Always a great story. Thank you for blending our families and adding one more. Truly our highest achievements. Our anniversary would have been 43 years this Tuesday. I do understand why you are missing this one. You have been a driven force in our lives. Not without its demons. We are over comers. Please don’t worry, you are in heaven. I cannot even imagine what you are seeing. I am so sorry you had to suffer so. Gods promise to not leave us or forsake us. As you became sicker, I continued to get well. Gods plan is amazing. Everything that has transpired since 2013 has brought us to this place. It was a true blessing to care for you, to be with you every minute, my choice. I wanted nothing but you. Parkinson’s has taught me things I did not want to know. You and God taught me so much more. Thank you! You are my hero. I sang and whispered in your ear, I heard your last breathe, and your last heartbeat. We will miss you forever. You left, Lucas came, and the circle of life will continue. Will I cry, yes, not for my loss, you are set free, but for my gain, a closer walk and relationship with Jesus, who carried you to heaven. As we always prayed together, no matter what it takes, give your life to Jesus! He took Denny through the fire before He took him home. I am blessed to have witnessed it all. Denny knew how to forgive because Jesus forgave him. Set aside all differences, take care of each other. Time is fleeting. In the blink of an eye, it was your time. I will honor you wherever I go. Parkinson’s took you from us, God took you home. I love you forever and always. Don’t forget to meet me at the gate! So long my love!❤️Denny Wayne Reed❤️

Good evening. Saturday blog. I wrote this poem after Denny passed away. Writing helps me release a lot of emotions.

Oh my Denny, love of my life, I couldn’t wait to be your wife. A lot happened in 42 years, now, everyday, I think of you with tears. Tears for the past, that can never be changed, tears for the present, there is nothing to rearrange and tears for the future, that you will not see, and tears just keep falling from me. I miss you so much, with each falling tear, if I could wish you back, I would keep you here. We know these fantasies, we create in our mind, if only I had known we were running out of time. Time passed quickly for you and I, as I think of the day we said goodbye. Heaven is your new home, while you wait for me, the day God calls my name, we will be together for all of eternity! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Friday, Christmas Day blog. Short and sweet. I spent Christmas Eve with my son and family. Today, mom, my cousin Bobby and I had dinner. Then went to my daughters and family. As much as I miss the big family gatherings with Denny and everyone, it was very nice spending time quality time at each of my children’s homes. God is so faithful! He gave me what I needed, time with my family! The greatest gift! I am truly very tired tonight! So, Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night! Thank you Jesus! Good night. God bless. ❤️🤗🎄🙏🏻🎄🤗❤️

Good evening. Wednesday blog. I still cannot wrap my mind around this whole year without you. Will forever remember 45 Christmases with you. All of the shopping that you let me do for our four kids. We never went without, because of all of your hard work. Presents and holiday food with family over the years. I’m speechless my mind flooded with memories. God please give us the strength and help us through this first Christmas without my husband, their father, their Papa and Great papa! Missing you every day is becoming normal, the special dates are anything but normal. But, God remains faithful, God is good. And I will continue to praise Him through the hurt! I love you Denny. Thank you for all of our Christmases! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🎄🙏🏻🎄🤗❤️

Good evening. Monday blog. Today, 40 years ago, I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior. 40 years ago we went tree shopping. There was not a tree in any location in this city or around. Obviously we waited to long! We went back for evening church. I was sick about a tree. So we’re the kids. A very good friend of ours, from Sunday School, said, come to my house, you can have our tree. You do not get out of their house without salvation being presented. I accepted, and went home with a beautiful tree! Better yet, a beautiful new attitude. Denny thought I lost my mind, he accepted Christ 2 years later. Our best years. Satan got in the way a few times. Thank God you cannot lose your salvation. In the end, Jesus was all we wanted and all we needed. We saw Denny’s soul take flight! Praise God for His miraculous plan, and that Christmas tree, 40 years ago today, Marilyn saw the light! So, both of my Birthdays are in December. Thank you Jesus. Denny and I will be together for eternity. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🎄🙏🏻🎄🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday blog. This month has truly turned out some surprises. Actually, the last couple of months. COVID-19 in October, faced Thanksgiving without Denny for the first time. Then, emergency surgery. God, I am listening. All of our special days for 45 years, alone now. Guess what? I’m still breathing, I can breathe. I have my moments! They are tapering. I miss him so much. I have not walked for a week. A little break. That little bit of a scare, pushed me to get Christmas shopping and baking done, and I did. I’m ordering dinner tomorrow. Taking a break there also. A few days off from writing. I feel fantastic. Then today, I took 4th in the Christmas cookie contest at Random Acts of Walbridge. I love that little shop. Very unique place. I go Wednesday to the Dr. for surgery check up. God is good. He is leading me in many ways! My positive attitude keeps me going in many directions. Thanks to the recovery program. I sure miss our group meetings and baking for them. Keep moving forward! January will be the big hump, one whole year without Denny. Plus it’s on our grandsons B-day, he will be 16. I do take one day at a time. I can’t run ahead to a day I might not be given. Gods job! Thank you all for your prayers. Miracles happen everyday. I believe I am one of them. Thank you dear Lord! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Monday blog. Having emergency surgery thrown in the Christmas mix, can really throw things off kilter. I had no shopping done, my cards were not made out, then cookies. I know these things are material and my health is more important. I really believe Gods protecting arms are around me. Look at this year in my families life. 7 years of hospitals, rehab, nursing homes, nurses and therapists in and out of our home. In all of that, we never missed a holiday with our family and all the trimmings. I am so thankful that we have those memories! Last fall was the worst. January brought his passing, March brought COVID-19. All of our family-holiday gatherings, shutdown. I still fixed all of our holiday meals. I do these things for me! It all keeps me balanced! I will confess, I drove, my daughter was more than a little upset. I am done with my pain med. I am not tired, I am not in pain, and yes I understand. Anyway, my shopping is done and under the tree, half the cards in the mail and still working on cookies. I am in a cookie contest Wednesday, something fun! God has me, and I know it! Being bipolar, all of this could have buried me. My mental health is so important to me. So, today, 46 weeks in heaven. Not possible. Facing Christmas without him hurts. I don’t know how else to describe it! I ask again, please pray my family and I through the holidays. It will all get done, it always has. I will be done also. God is good. Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Thursday blog. Getting in under the midnight hour. After a couple of days off. Last evening at 9:30 pm, I said, a snack sounds good. Wrong! I was in so much pain after, it did subside for a bit, I took my meds and slept all night! I walked 4 miles and got ready for work. Stopped for some nutrition. 4 sips took me back to pain! I kept thinking, it must be my stomach bypass. So I wanted Wood County. Left work and here I am! CT scan showed the bowel blockage, hernia. When Dr. Lalor heard, he said, get her ready for surgery, I’m on my way. That’s why I drove here! 4 small incisions. I’m going home today, Friday. I am on morphine. Just a little pain. Compared to the pain I was in, sitting here is a piece of cake. Now, going to work this morning, I grabbed my iPad and paper, which I never take to work! God knew. His plans are perfect. I can’t drive, so family will be getting the car and I. I have a cookie order and I entered my first cookie contest. If I continue to feel this good, I am baking. God is good and He remains good! I was in prayer all day. One year ago this month we watched Denny declining and today, I’m sure my family was uneasy! God controls all. He has my attention. Thank you Lord for always opening our eyes! Your way, in your time. December is also the month I accepted Christ. The little baby who came to save me. My heart has been heavy approaching Christmas. Not today! Gods plans amaze me! Right now, I am grateful and thankful! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Sunday and Monday blog. 45 weeks today in heaven. He is loved and missed continually. It never goes away. I have to be very careful, certain music and thoughts can destroy me quickly. Sometimes I let my guard down, not good. I call my daughter for a pep talk! I already know the things to do! She reinforces it. God is with us and we know it. Todays tribute. Happy 45 weeks in heaven honey! Please pray my family and I through December and January! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Saturday blog.What a blessing today was! Our little mans Birthday Party, small scale. I cannot say enough times how much I love him. Just some family time today was like medicine! Look for the silver lining everyday. God is good. God is here. Do not let negativity take you down. God is near, and family. Good night. God bless!❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Friday blog. So the past three nights, I took a birthday break! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Saturday and Sunday blog! 44 weeks in heaven tomorrow. I love this song! It is not about God. Lyrics at the end. We who know God personally, know this title, personally. Wether I am smiling, laughing or still crying for whatever reason. I know I am not alone. I do not walk alone. If the whole world turned there back on me, I am not alone. In our darkest hours around Denny’s bed, waiting, watching, hearing, God was with us. Beside us, holding us up, keeping us together, giving us supernatural strength to get through the hardest days of our lives! See the smiles on all six of our faces? Denny rallied after his other child arrived! It was amazing. They all talked of their childhood and family vacations! All laughing! He could barely speak at Christmas last year. There was seven of us in that room! I’ll never believe anything different. Only the touch of God can calm a storm like that. Once his lungs filled, we had 50 some hours to watch and wait. Unbearable and relieving, all of us suffering in our own ways. If you have been through it, you know exactly what I am saying. If you have not, you will not understand until you are there. It’s still unbearable, I cry through my own blog, when writing! Reliving. No matter what happens in this life, in my life, I will never stop loving him. He was my every breath. I miss him in ways I can’t even describe! Nothing that comes my way can ever take our memories! God remains good! In all circumstances! Again, cherish, appreciate, time is fleeting! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Friday blog. I have never been out shopping on Black Friday. By choice! My cousin called and asked me to go with her. Did not even think of what day it was. I have 2 words, crazy madhouse! I am not one to stay in an aisle, because of non movement. It is the Season, and Jesus is the only Reason! Not Santa, not Snowmen, not even Christmas trees! The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit!!! That’s it. The Trinity. After these past years, especially this past year! God is showing us, He and only He, is the answer! In a world right now when we have to pick and choose what, when and where we can be with family and friends! You can’t kiss, no hugging, for social distancing, our God given instincts to be close to all humans is being taken away! We have to be creative just to see our loved ones faces! It’s sad! You do see what I mean! Lean on Jesus, not on your own understanding. If you are walking on your own, through this painful journey called life, nothing but pain and hurt everyday, and the feelings of know where to turn. Lost, empty feelings everyday. That makes it all hard to cope with! Put your faith in Jesus this Season! You will see things in a whole new light! God bless all of you, my family and friends! It is so easy to feel lost in normal circumstances, let alone all of this COVID-19! Jesus outstretched arms are for you to rest in! Amen! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Good evening. Thursday blog. At the end of this day, I am very tired. Two days of cooking and baking. My cousin, sister, brother in law, mom and I. Great day of laughter. I cracked once and recovered. God was so good to me these past days. Giving me extra strength. Now I can’t keep my eyes open. Accept what can’t be changed! A grateful and thankful heart! Not just on Thanksgiving! Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️

Thanksgiving without you! I am still smiling! Sweet dreams in heaven. Gone from sight, always in my heart.❤️❤️

Good evening. Wednesday blog. Some days I smile more, other days I cry more! It’s a balancing act! After baking and cooking, very small scale. I delivered cookies to the homes I clean. I really appreciate their trust in me. Who doesn’t love cookies! I went to the lights last night. Brought back lots of memories with Denny and grandkids. But, I didn’t cry. Just beautiful! Many yards around the area, look like the Zoo. Stunning! So I have been thinking this all year, from the time the pandemic started, God and God alone is in charge of the reasons why He wants us to face all of the holidays alone. He has His reasons. It’s not for us to question. I continue to thank Him for all of the whatever’s. We are to give thanks in all circumstances! Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of you! God bless you and your families. Have a great night!❤️🥰❤️

Good evening. Monday blog. 43 weeks you have been gone. We all miss you so much. Each of us in our own way. I had one full day without tears. Facing holidays without your spouse for the first time is rough. Now the kids are all having their own. I will say again, God has his reasons! This Empty Chair poem-quote is hard to read, but, sooo true! Keep your eyes on Jesus, He will see you through. Good night. God bless.❤️🤗🙏🏻🤗❤️