the final frontier

Since I've made new friends, reconnected with old friends, and family is scattered all over this country I have decided to start a blog. I can't imagine who might read it, but if I'm the only one who does it's ok--I'll consider it therapy.

As most of you know we had a tragedy in the family last week. My brother-in-law died. Jamie's situation was often used to show the girls how circumstances can get out of hand if you aren't careful. Simple decisions sometimes have huge consequences. I know Jamie never intended his life to end the way it did. It would have been unconceivable to him when he was younger and sober.

Since his death, we haven't used it as a learning moment. We haven't had to. The girls will never forget. It's made a deep impression in their lives.

Jamie was a blessing to many people. He was very gifted musically. He was well educated and came from a home where Christ's love was taught. He had a great sense of humor-Jess said she'd miss his "dorky" laugh. Most importantly, he blessed us by bringing Amy and his daughter Mallory into our lives.

I also believe his death will be a blessing for someone. Maybe that is strange to say, but God never wastes an opportunity to bring someone closer to Him. We might not hear of how God has brought about something good in this tragedy, but I know it will happen. We will hear of it when we go home.

So, everyone be patient (even if I bore your pants off). I'll get this figured out and will strive to give more cheerful updates from West Texas.