I Can't Believe...

The other day Emiko said to me, "Mommy, I can't believe Nancy's dead, Annie's in the Hospital, Jennifer has Cancer and that Rachel lost her baby (miscarried)." Then she said, "let me count how many I Can't Believes that is." Today as I was crying to myself, I sat thinking about the things that I, too, can't believe.

I can't believe the Lord loves me, that He died for me, that He blessed me with my family, that He sought to give me James, Emiko and Chloe. That I have parents, grandparents and the best friends in the world. I have discovered as I have walked this difficult road these past 4 weeks, that my friends truly are a gift from God; that He prompts them to call me when I need them, that they unselfishly give of themselves to me, that they want to help and that they are willing to drop everything to do so.

In a world where I first learned to become dependent on no one, I have now discovered the joy of living in need of everyone. I need my husband, my daughters, my mom, my dad, my grandparents and my friends. But most of all, right now, and when I take my last breathe, I need the Lord. He gives my life meaning and fills my heart with joy.

Gotta Love Them Grandparents!

Hugs, Loves, Kisses and more! Cherish those special gifts from God; be they grandparents by relation or grandparents by adoption, they are a blessing to those around us. They mold us, encourage us, care for us and smother us with attention.

Annie Thompson has been a precious friend to us as our adopted grandmother and we are so sorry to say good-bye. Only the Lord knows how many prayers have been uttered on our behalf by her precious lips. She has showered us with love and we are so blessed to have had the chance to know her. Emiko would not be half the person she is today if it had not been for Annie's unconditional affections; she has developed Emiko into a nurturing, empathetic and tender person who has a genuine love for the elderly. I am indeed sad that Emiko will not get to continue loving you as she would like to and that Chloe will not have had the same opportunity to be touched and nurtured by your tender life.

Annie, we love you and thank God for the opportunity to know you. May you rest in peace. July 23, 2008

Click on the link to view photos of Annie. http://picasaweb.google.com/sharikiyo

Friends!

How can I be any more blessed? I have incredible friends, the most amazing husband and two fabulous kids. Thanks be to God for providing me with the most remarkable friends and family in the world (no offense, I am sure your family is great too, but...yes, I know, I'm biased)! I am not sure how I could make it through this difficult time without them. They are always there, always listening and always caring. Thank you. In case I don't tell you enough; I love you and value you tremendously. Be blessed, as you have blessed me.

Nancy Jean "Nanc and Ancy" Ingersoll

Nancy had a tremendous love for the Lord and she was a great spiritual mentor to many people. From the time I had the privilege of knowing her, until the final day of her life, she enjoyed a strong relationship and fellowship with the Lord. Though her walk, as with most people, I suppose, had a few ebs and flows, it was a constant upward trend that eventually peaked to perfection during her final months. Never in my life have I witnessed such faith, courage and peace. She will always be an inspiration to me and I hope my life honors hers by walking as closely with the Lord as she did, and as she mentored me to do these past 15 years.

She will always be remembered by her loved ones for her inviting smile and contagious laughter. Nancy had the best laugh, straight from the belly. It would make you smile just to hear her enjoy herself so much. It truly was contagious; how could you not help but to join in her laughter. Oh how I will miss those times of joy with her. She was a great listener and friend to everyone around her. Even during her final weeks, when I was experiencing turbulent times, she, a dying woman, encouraged me; what irony. She had a great concern for others and never failed to put their needs first. She was gracious, kind, compassionate and extrememly generous, both with her time and talents. Most of her friends and family could identify at least one item in their house that she had made, be it slippers she crocheted, a cross-stitch or a blanket. Nanc was incredibly talented and boy could she cook! She made some of the best food I have ever had the privilege of serving! Even still, I can hardly believe I will never get the opportunity to dine with her again. After eating together at least two times a month, and more often than not, once a week, for the better part of our friendship, our Friday Night Dinner Group will just never be the same.

I know that your life has a unique story that involves Nancy as well. Please share your stories with us and give others an opportunity to share in the joy of hearing your adventures.

A Celebration of Nancy Jean Ingersoll

View the on-line pictures of my dear friend and mentor. I love you Nancy and will always cherish our special times together. You were a wonderful friend and mentor and I already miss you terribly.



http://picasaweb.google.com/sharikiyo