We were video chatting when Violet showed us the certificate she received from her teacher, honoring her for exemplifying the character trait peace. I asked her what she did to show that trait at her school. There was a poignant pause; then she said, “Well, I know a lot about friendship and kindness, and I’m…
Shepherds and Sheep
Sally Sheep was given as a birthday gift to Aunt Phyllis by her brother Jerry when they celebrated their 98th and 92nd birthdays in 2018. He thought she would think it funny since they both grew up on a Nebraska farm. Violet had just turned one, so Phyllis gave it to her, and we have…
Advent Joy and Wonder
I’ve been scrolling for photos on my phone of days past with Aunt Phyllis in order to capture her child-like faith, joy, and wonder. I described the memorial service and the attentiveness to details surrounding joy, and it’s not by accident that the focus of her service and this week’s Advent calendar is JOY. The…
When the Saints Go Marching In
We said goodbye to our dear Aunt Phyllis on Saturday. As I had mentioned in a previous post, we had the special opportunity to visit with her over the last couple of months, and every visit was sacred, even in the last week, on Thanksgiving morning, when she could no longer speak. But we could…
Encounters with Angels
Kelli is putting together Nativity costumes for the kids who will be singing at one of their church’s services. I think of all the Halloween costumes and Nativity costumes I have put together over the years. In the first photo Kelli was a fairy and the girls behind her more likely angels (note the halos)….