a year gone.

Hey Auntie Karen :)
guess what?? Today is the first day of spring! And its your birthday! I always could remember when your birthday was because it was always the first day of spring. :) pretty lucky if you ask me, cuz you loved spring. so do i! The weather finally starts getting warmer, and it stays lighter longer... And it means that summer is just around the corner!

You would have been 60 years old today... I can just imagine you saying how old you are, but you never looked it. You always had this youthful spirit about you... Idk, maybe it was how carefree you were, or how gentle and kind-hearted you were. Something about how much you didn't stress about things made you younger at heart I think. You never seemed that old to me ;) You were always happy, and generous, and you made other people happy just by simply being around. I think younger people have a tendency to do that, like no matter what they do they're still cute and irresistable. Well you were irrestibable because of your wonderful personality, your contagious smile, and a heart that was always 100% for God. You were definitely a woman after His own heart. I miss that you know...

Surprisingly though, this one year anniversary of you going home to be with the Lord, hasn't been as hard as I thought it was going to be. I think God has finally given me some peace about the whole situation. Not to say I don't miss, or still don't cry on occasion :) but I'm doing okay. I know now more than ever that God's plan is perfect, and even though He works in ways we don't understand or can't explain - there is always a reason. Of course I still wish you were here so we could play scrabble, sing the oldies, make a huge bowl of popcorn, etc! but I'm so very very happy that you are not suffering anymore. That the old things have passed away and you have a perfect body, and that you're in Heaven, worshipping the most amazing guy ever - Jesus Christ!

I'm going to Sioux Falls today, and Danny is going to be there. Honestly I think thats what makes it harder... is seeing him without you. You guys were such an amazing couple, and you loved each other unconditionally. Haha. I can still hear you saying, "honey! honey!" :) and he would always come without complaint, without question, and help you in whatever way possible.

Aww Karen. You were such a blessing in my life, and still continue to be. I constantly think of the example that you left, along with all the amazing memories. I just hope that I can be the kind of woman you were - with a heart for the Lord, willing to serve, always putting others above yourself. I miss you so much. But I'm thankful for how many ways you impacted my life. You will always be a part of me... and will continue to live on in my heart.

I love you Auntie Karen. Happy Birthday!!!

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