One Long Week . . .

To be honest, I'd say that Jer and I have had better weeks than the one ahead of us. So, I wanted to share what's on our minds as part of our blog because it's been a good outlet for sharing.

This Friday saw the passing of Jer's great grandmother - Alice Linley. She was a matriarch of the family, and an extraordinary woman. She was 92-years old and lived on her own for much of elder years. She survived a bought with Polio when she was in her thirties, and rather than let it stop her from living a normal life, she continued on by getting around on her knees until she was into her eighties. She was sharp as a tack, and always remembered us when we visited, even the things that were going on in all our lives. I'm blessed to have gotten the opportunity to know her, and am so sorry that our baby will not have the same pleasure. Especially since Jeremy's grandfather, Bob, was so looking forward to a five generation picture with his mother (Alice), son (Mike), grandson (Jeremy), great grandchild (TBA), and himself. Though we will be without that great picture, she will live on in our hearts and our stories. Unfortunately, I'm also struggling with this coming week because the 7-hour trip by car to and from Wisconsin isn't something that my 8 & 1/2 month pregnant body could/should handle. And even though I've contemplated going anyway - I know it's not the smart thing to do. So I have to sit the wake and funeral out. I'm also going to be husbandless for a few days this week. And while I know it has been done before, we haven't spent very much time apart since we've gotten pregnant. So, I'm hoping I handle this ok. I have just come to rely on Jer for so much the past few weeks, that not having him home will be a true test of what I'm made of. On top of that, my entire Linley family will be crammed into two cars and heading on a 14 hour road trip over a 48 hour period. So, I know I will also spend most of both days worrying until they return home again.

So if you have a chance, prayers for me, Jer and Baby Linley would be great. Also, and more importantly, for his family. Deaths at any age or stage of life are difficult to deal with.

Thanks for reading.