Emotionally Spent

well, it's back to Monday.

quite the weekend of up's and down's.

despite the devastating news received on Saturday morning, we tried to keep the weekend as normal as possible for the family.  the girls start school tomorrow, so we had promised them one last "hoo-rah" for the summer.

our original plans were leaning towards taking them to a drive-in movie on Saturday night up in Gibson City.  they have never been to a drive-in (me either), and the weather was shaping up to be very cooperative... nice and pleasant... perfect for watching the new "Planes" movie on the big.... no.... REALLY big screen.

instead, we changed plans and took the girls swimming over at the Monticello aquatic center.  Our oldest had been there a couple of times, but none of the rest of us had.  despite the (almost) brutally cool water, we had a great time.  much of the pool area is 5" or less, which was perfect for the girls.

after that, we took them to our favorite pizza place, Mama B's down in Bement. this is a really neat place with really good pizza (and prices).  recommend it highly if  you are ever out that way.

as i said above, quite the weekend of up's and down's.  very emotional.  so happy and excited to be sharing time with the girls, yet mourning deep inside for a beloved family.

the tears really hit for both my wife and i on sunday.  at church, our pastor gave a personal, heartfelt, emotional tribute to his friend and ours.  as we were listening to those spoken words, what a blessing it was to remember all the great times and experiences from past years.

we continue to mourn, but we also remember that today is a new day, a spectacular day, and the best truly is yet to come.

out for now....

MH