Cheryl

My beautiful mother-in-law died today. Her name was Cheryl, pronounced with a "Ch" like cherry. She was diagnosed with metastasized colon cancer about 9 months ago. In July of last year, all of her children and their families gathered together in Missouri to enjoy some time with her, what would be the last time some of us would see her. She was a great example to me of kindness, forgiveness, service to others, and so many other wonderful qualities. She had the quickest wit of anyone I know. She could make you laugh without trying. I cannot put into words what she meant to me. I will miss her.

Cheryl's favorite color was pink and she wore it all the time. Her wardrobe was full of brightly colored pink clothing. She also loved flowers of any kind. Her home was filled with pictures of her children and grandchildren and handwritten notes of her favorite quotes. She always had her apron on ready to work no matter where she was. That apron she donned was a reminder to me to love others through service. I'm not sure who took this photo, but this is how I will always remember Cheryl, with a great big beautiful pink smile.

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Although it's been a difficult time, we've made time for some fun, too. One of our favorite things to do as a family is beach comb for nice rocks and sea glass, and just take a leisurely walk along the beach. Point-no-Point is our favorite beach - I think it's Tate and Beau's favorite beach, too.

We celebrated Andrew's birthday tonight with my family. He turned eleven yesterday. Garrett always adds some fun and surprises to the celebration. He hid an unwrapped gift in the sleeve of his coat and Andrew couldn't wait to find out what it was.

Just what the newest Boy Scout of Troop 1560 wanted, a deluxe Swiss Army knife.

Of course, the lecture on knife safety ensued. Garrett told him the story of when he nearly cut his finger off, complete with facial expressions and all.

Garrett loves to mess with the cake and we love his little jokes. If you look closely, you will see a hidden Lego figure in the side of Andrew's cake. Andrew noticed it, too.