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Overwhelmed

This is the word I used most often right now. I have found myself crying at least once a day for about the last week. Ahhhh, when does it end? One thing after the next.

But, I know things will change. Life WILL settle down again... someday. When will that day be again?

I had to have a root canal. It doesn't seem to be taking at this point. I am in more pain now than before the "procedure." It now looks like I am going to lose the tooth.

So many good things, but so overwhelming.

God please come take over and let me take a nap.

Friends

I miss my friends in Chicago. I miss them deeply and fiercly. But, I am finally building new strong friendships here in Oregon and I am so thankful. Thank you God for friendships. They bring me so much closer to you.

Today

Today was a busy day. Today was the day we signed ALL of those papers you sign when you are buying a home. Today I learned that every time you sign your name on a mortgage document you put a date by it. Today is 03-02-06. I wrote that date over 25 times today. Why out of 365 days did I have to sign today. I was reminded of what this date meant over and over and over again. With every page we turned there was another date to write. And with every date I thought of Laurie. Laurie and her red coat. Laurie and her infectious smile. Laurie yelling my name through the Willow halls. Laurie and the funny videos I laughed and cried at at her memorial service. Laurie and the terrible choice she made on this date a year ago. Laurie, Laurie, Laurie. We miss you so much.

I wanted to do a balloon launch in memory of Laurie and ALL the wonderful chocies she did make.

At first I wanted to find an image of a single red balloon for Laurie. I guess it was that coat still holding on. But, as I scanned through shots I found lots brightly colored hot air balloon pictures. I thought, well, why not? Laurie was like that. Brightly colored and full of life that lifted people up. So here it is... my very own balloon launch.







Photo from Publitek, Inc. Waukesha, WI

Here is the card I am "attaching" to my Laurie balloon. Lord, bring it to whoever needs it.

Laurie was my friend.
Laurie was vivacious and fun.
Laurie wore a red coat.
Laurie had beautiful hair.
Laurie made me laugh.
Laurie was intelligent.
Laurie was kind and tender.
Laurie loved the Lord deeply.
Laurie loved people deeply.
Laurie was drepressed and chose not to share that with anyone.
Laurie took her own life one year ago.
Laurie is so dearly missed it cannot be described in words.
Laurie's decision has effected thousands of people.
I can't wait to see my friend Laurie again!
I miss you Laurie... BONCIMMMMIIINNNNO!

If you feel like Laurie please, please share that with someone! Anyone! God IS listening. Don't get stuck in this moment. IT WILL PASS. THERE IS HOPE.

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