… House of Joe, writing on my novella. Of course, it was all for naught, but nevertheless a pleasant exercise. Anyway, this man comes in to buy coffee and asks in a loud voice if there is a newspaper around. I knew there was so I said, “Yes, there one there.” (Picture me pointing.) He comes over to pick it …

Our Sports Cardio instructor does something different with the class each Monday. It’s like Jr. High PE, but harder! However, I’m not in Jr. High any more, so it’s actually fun! However, she did have us jumping rope for two, four minute segments. I wasn’t happy. But, I kept jumping. Our Guatemalan guests left today, Anibal and Claudia. Very lovely …

Toto! We’re not in Palm Bay any more. We’re over the rainbow in Seattle!It’s been raining here all week. I thought, “Did I fall asleep in Palm Bay and wake up in Seattle?” Gray days with heavy clouds , only a few glimpses of the Florida sun. I want my sunshine! Gymed myself today even though I have a cold. …

Dear Dad,On earth, it’s Father’s Day. Well, at least in the part of earth where I live. It was a beautiful, sunny, hot Florida day. You know the kind. I went to church, participated in the service, worshipped the Lord and exhorted others. I thought of you and how I always called you on Father’s Day to say how much …

(singing) Oh, I’m a grump, grump, grump. Don’t bother me, I’ll thummmmpppp…… yooouuuu!Wow, I’ve been grumpy lately. I’m tired and hungry, and just found out Tony is flying to Guatemala on an airline that sounds like a fast food!!! TACA airlines. “No, no, no, you can’t fly on TACO airlines! Fergitaboutit!” That’s my rule, you know. Do not fly on …

I’m listening to Mike Bickle’s CD series on the focused life. It’s incredible! I cannot recommend it highly enough. I’m so amazed at Mike’s insight and simplicity in presenting it. Also, so amazed that this CD series was one Dad ordered, not knowing he would never hear it. Yet, I know at the age of 68, he would have tried …

The grieving process at this level is new for me. Dealing with the memory of my dad dying. Seeing him in the casket. Remembering I went to a funeral for my father. Death stinks. I don’t wish it on anyone. But how can we pass from this life into the eternal without dying? How can we see with our own …

I was fine all day yesterday until right before dinner. It just hit me that Dad is never going to walk through the front door again. I’ll never hear his, “Hey, Rach,” and know the comfort of his embrace. I finally ended up walking down the road, crying. I know I looked pitiful, but I had to get it out. …

Dad’s memorial went well yesterday. Very well. Mom felt joyful and refreshed afterwards. About 300 people came to rejoice in Dad’s home going. Dad was reconciler in life, and in death. Many people came from our old church, men who had not seen each other in years. It was good to see them. Good to be reunited and remember that …

My dad died on a June day. It was raining where I lived. Tears from heaven. The day seemed rather ordinary, like nothing unusual would take place. I had plans to write on my novella, fix brownies for Eric and practice “Amazing Grace” with him to sing at another saint’s funeral on Friday. At 10 p.m. I said good-bye to …