Wedding & Vacation

There is not a lot to report, however we would covet your prayers as we head out again on Friday, 7/29/11.  We are going to our nephew, Luke's wedding in Clinton, Illinois.  Luke is marrying Jessica Roberson and we are so excited to be a part of their special weekend.  Zac and Sarah will meet us there.  We are so looking forward to being with Tom's family to celebrate another marriage!  Tom's parents flew safely to Chicago today.  They will enjoy time at Terry and Joyce's after the wedding.

After the wedding the five of us will travel to Tennessee to meet up with Lisa's family for a week at Norris Lake.  The lake house where we stay does not have wi-fi access so this is our farewell message until we return with many memories, pictures and details!  Thank you for your continued prayers for us.
Tom continues to keep the pace with working each day and struggles with ongoing fatigue.  We know he will enjoy lazy days on the dock just ahead!

Happy Anniversary Dad & Mom!

On July 24th, 1959 my dad married my mom...or maybe my mom married my dad...no, they married each other.  Not only have they been married for 52 years...I can honestly say that I believe they have been happily married for 52 years!  They continue to inspire Tom and I and we are so grateful to the Lord for their commitment to God, each other and their family.  The past 7 years they have wintered in Florida, however this past winter they decided to buy a "real" home and make Venice, Florida their permanent address.  In March they came back to Dublin to put their home here on the market.  Little did we or they know why God would have them here in March...they say "hind sight is 20/20"...the day before they were to leave to go back to Florida is when Tom ended up in the hospital...the rest is history.  God had them here for us.  A huge "thanks" goes to my sister, brother-in-law, brother and sister-in-law who helped them with their big move.  Tom and I were out of the "loop" on that adventure...and we can honestly say we're sad we missed it.  Not only were my parent's in the middle of a major move, my siblings helping to sort and pack but they all were instrumental in helping Tom and I too!  It is with this amazing family that God allows us to spend a week together on Norris Lake in Tennessee next week!  Thanks to my parents for making this family vacation a priority for us.  I will not fully be able to put into words what my parents mean to me.  I am still trying to grasp the enormity of their move for me.  God continues to remind both Tom and I on a daily basis how to trust Him daily, not weekly, monthly or yearly.  I tend to allow my mind to think of the future and the "how will this play out with my parents in Florida now" and God brings me back to trusting Him for today.  I don't know for sure what tomorrow holds but I do know Who holds the future!  I am so thankful for the years that my parents have been nearby and know that whenever we need to "get away" we have a place in Venice!  And whenever they need to "come home" our nest is empty!

We LOVE you!

Tom and I had a great time on Friday evening with our dear friends, Dave and Lori Muschott.  Dave stepped into Tom's role at the high school when our lives were turned upside down in March.  We wanted to thank not only Dave but Lori also for her role in supporting him during those difficult days.  We enjoyed dinner at "Bonefish Grill" and then back to the Muschott home to see pictures and hear details of their daughter, Brittany's engagement to Brian Hecker.  We arrived to their home to find the power out after a huge storm!  Okay, so we'll get to see the pictures later...another reason to get together!  Now that Tom and I have a recently married daughter we feel we are a wealth of information (ha, ha)!  Anyway, thank you Dave and Lori for all you mean to us.

Saturday morning Tom and I enjoyed serving someone else versus being served!  Matthew was to be caring for a lawn while a family was out of town and since Matt was in Mt. Vernon at basketball camp he couldn't do it.  So being the gracious parents we are...Tom and I tag teamed the yard job and we both were encouraged to be able to do it.  Has anyone else noticed how HOT it is here?  Whew...we are thankful for air-conditioning!  It's been warmer here than in Florida...crazy.

Saturday night we were encouraged to have long-time friends, Jim and Terri Parrish here for dinner.  What a refreshing time of fellowship, food and good old fashion gaming!  Our competitive sides came out on the table as we teamed up for Skip Bo and then ended the evening with a round of Euchre.  Thanks Jim and Terri for being such a godly couple who we can share life with.  Of course I forgot to take a picture:(.

We were so blessed this morning to have the Operation Barnabas teams here for our Sunday worship.  God used the music, drama and His Word to revitalize Tom and I as we continue to walk by faith and not by sight.  What special memories the OBer's brought as it was just a short time ago Sarah was a part of that amazing adventure!

Tomorrow Tom will go to the oncologist for blood work.  The blood work will determine if he will continue with the same dose of chemotherapy.  If the numbers are in "normal" range there is the possibility that the dose will be increased.  It's funny...we were talking and Tom said "I kinda hope that my numbers are down (not normal) so I don't have to up my dose" and I agreed with him.  We really do want his numbers to be normal, but we don't want to increase the drugs!  Thank you for joining with us in prayer that God's will be done.

"Normal" Life

You know life is somewhat "normal" when I'm not posting/blogging on a daily basis!  This is good news.

However, you know whenever there is good news...there is also some bad news.  The bad news is Tom's brother, Tim and his wife, Julie celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on July 19th and I forgot!  Okay, so it's really not bad news it's GREAT news.  I'm bad for not remembering.  Anyway we love you Tim and Julie and we are so thankful for you and praise the Lord for His hand upon you both.  We trust it was a beautiful day and we look forward to celebrating 25 more years right along with you!

Happy Birthday Papa & Zac!

Last Friday my sister called and mentioned she was going into the middle school office (her new place of employment) to get organized. She said so much of what she needed to do required help and that she wouldn't be able to get as much done as she would like.  Well, since I'm not working right now and Tom was at work it would allow me to be available to help her if she wanted me.  She jumped at the offer and I met her there.  We worked all morning moving boxes and setting up her office space.  It was so special for me to be with my sister, be helpful to someone and have the freedom to go!  Thanks Kelly for a fun morning!  She lost her car keys in the moving process and she text me this morning and said she found them...an answer to prayer.

Also on Friday I received the sweetest note and pendant from my cousin, Abbi who lives near Toledo.  She wanted to share "hope" with me and let me know they are praying for Tom (& me).  Thanks, Abbi!

Also on Friday we got word that our nephew, Timothy proposed to Brittany Austin!  We are so happy for both of them and we pray that the Lord will allow us to be in Florida next May so we can celebrate their marriage!

Sarah came into town Friday night for Rachel Wigton and Caleb Stertzer's wedding.  I stayed up to see her after she arrived home from the rehearsal dinner.  She definitely doesn't like being without Zac, especially at a wedding.  We enjoyed "catching up" and got to bed pretty late...okay, well late for me!

July 16, 2011

Happy Birthday to my dad...a.k.a. Papa...we love you!

Saturday morning we enjoyed fresh whole wheat blueberry pancakes before Tom and Sarah were off to play a little tennis together.  I can be honest and say I was jealous as I stayed home to help with Sarah's laundry.  Matt left early Saturday morning to spend the day with Katelyn's family in Greenford, Ohio.  Yes, they are "officially" in a relationship (it's true...I checked it out on Facebook)!  Matt enjoyed meeting Katelyn's family and seeing the exotic farm she lives on with her parents and three brothers.  The farm has camels, zebra, alligator, tortoise, skunk, ostrich's, & peacocks just to name a few!!

What a beautiful wedding on a beautiful day.  Rachel's brother, Matt who is a pastor on the east coast married them at our church.  It was a very special day and Sarah did a great job playing the piano.  Congratulations Caleb & Rachel!  At the reception, after Rachel and her dad had the "father/daughter dance", they invited all the fathers and daughters there to join them on the dance floor.  It was an opportunity Tom jumped at...dancing with Sarah!

Sunday was a rare opportunity that our family of four (minus Zac) was able to worship together.  We never take these moments lightly and treasure each and every time we can be together.  We are so thankful for the traveling mercies God granted Zac and the youth group back from Momentum and then too for Sarah as she traveled back to Indiana alone.

July 17, 2011

Sunday evening we enjoyed celebrating our nephew's birthday.  We celebrated at Travis and Emily's new home in Newark.  It was so fun to see their new place and all the work they have done to make it theirs.  Travis is so handy and has done all the major rehab himself...well okay, he's had a little help, but we are so impressed with his handyman skills and Emily's decorating eye.  We know Emily will enjoy living there with Travis once they are married on September 24th!  Please join us in prayer for Emily as she continues to wait to hear when she can take her nursing board exam.  She has been so patient as she waits...studying diligently...and praying for the job opening at Licking Memorial Hospital.  We know the Lord will be faithful to her and also that they will be able to join us for our family vacation in Tennessee in August.

Matt left yesterday for a week of basketball camp at MVNU.  We pray that he will be used by God to minister to the campers, be a leader among his peers and also learn and grow as a player himself.  After camp is over the team will head to Michigan for the weekend for boating and jet skiing fun together.  We trust the Lord for His watchful hand over these young men and that He would bond and build team unity among them.

Tom and I met with Dr. DeHaan (radiologist) this morning.  Her report was no different from Dr. Kuebler's for which we are thankful.  We will continue with the chemotherapy and trust God for complete healing!

God is Good, ALL the Time!

Thank you for praying!  Tom has had no more vomiting for which we are so thankful for.  He also has gone into work everyday this week.  Today will be a long day with several student and staff interviews.  I believe he is gaining more confidence with each day and has realized that the chemotherapy can't keep him down!
Tuesday evening after Tom rested and before dinner we decided to take a bike ride around Sharon Woods Park.  For those of you who are bike helmet advocates...you'd be proud, we both had our helmets on!!  After a good 5+ mile ride we returned home...locked out.  While we were loading up in the garage before leaving for our bike ride our dog was going nuts because she thought she was going to get to go.  We believe she jumped up against the door and locked it!  Anyway, our brother-in-law, Terry, came to our rescue with several house keys!  Thankfully one of them worked and we hope he threw away the ones that I believe are from our first house or several doors ago!  Life is an adventure.
Thank you for praying for our son-in-law, Zac.  He along with his 8 students arrived safely at Momentum...yea!
Last Sunday at church our dear friend, Morgan Meyers, sang a song I hadn't heard before but touched my heart as so many things do these days.  It was called "Desert Song" and she did an amazing job with it.  If you have time to listen I know you'll be blessed.

Morgan's 21st birthday was July, 12th!  Happy Birthday, Morgan...we love you!

Speaking of the Meyer's family...Carylee invited me over yesterday for a "pool day".  What a beautiful day to enjoy His creation and fellowship together around their beautiful pool.  Thanks for a relaxing day, Carylee...a special time.  I'm not sure we would ever run out of conversation!

God continues to encourage me with His Word.

"I sought the Lord and He answered me

and delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to Him are radiant with joy;

their faces will never be ashamed."

Psalm 34:4-5

I pray that when you see me and I see you our faces radiate with His joy!



Happy Anniversary Dan & Brittany! Chemo Re-Start

I'm putting a "warning label" on the front of this post...if you don't have a lot of time or stomach...don't read this...it's long and gross!

"I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord,

urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received,

with all humility and gentleness, with patience,

accepting one another in love,

diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit

with the peace that binds us."

Ephesians 4:1-2

Yesterday we met with the oncologist.  He did not order the MRI, the radiologist did,  and he believes it was too soon to get a good read.  The report stated that there were "enhancements" on Tom's brain which they interpret to be either radiation/surgery effects or tumor regrowth.  The doctor did not think it was tumor regrowth for which we are thankful.  The oncologist wants another MRI in 2-3 months.  We know that the PROTOCEL can also show up on an MRI so we are trusting God that this is what the "enhancements" are.  Last night Tom took his first day of round one of six chemotherapy treatments.  The doctor said make sure you have the anti-nausea medication on hand.  Neither Tom or I thought that he would need this since while on the chemo during radiation he never needed it, however he wasn't taking as large a dose either.  At 1:47 a.m. Tom began the vomiting.  He got back in bed and I said "I am so sorry" and he replied, "it's not that bad" and I proceeded to get the anti-nausea medication.  It wasn't ten minutes later he was back in the bathroom hurling over the great white throne.  He crawls back into bed and I say "I'm so sorry, can I pray with you?" and he replied, "I'm okay, just a little vomit, yes, please pray" so we prayed.  At 2:18 a.m. came the last round of yuck in the toilet.  We didn't know it would be the last one so I prayed and waited...fell asleep.  In the morning I was sure he would be wiped out and not wanting to go to work...boy was I wrong.  Tom came into the kitchen dressed, ready for work and singing "My God Reigns"!!  Therefore the verse at the top, Ephesians 4:1-2, my husband:  walking worthy, humble, gentle, and patient.  Tonight we have a better strategy...no turkey tacos for dinner, take the anti-nausea medication before the chemo and eliminate one chemo pill.  You see, yesterday I browned, prepared and froze 15# of turkey meat for tacos while we're on vacation with 24 family members the first week of August.  I had some extra meat and thought we'd just have tacos for dinner last night not even thinking that he may get sick.  Hind sight is 20/20!
Speaking of sight...Tom is still limited in his peripheral vision of his right eye.  I have noticed that he is getting more accommodated to it and compensating better for it.  However, he remembered that he had a warranty on his current glasses and wanted to get the replacement lenses even though it wasn't a new prescription, so we ordered his new lenses.  We went to Sears yesterday to pick them up and ran into Holly Varian and her mom, Judy Bechtel.  What sweet women who have prayed, encouraged and empathised with us on this journey.  I can't think of anyone better to understand what we're going through than the Bechtel family.  Thanks for your hugs and encouragement yesterday.
Also, yesterday while at COSTCO I ran into Sue LaMonte.  What an unexpected surprise and encouragement.  Sue has been such a prayer warrior for us even when she was facing such a difficult time in her life.  Sue fell on the ice this past winter and crushed her wrist for which she has had two surgeries and a lot of rehab.  During that time her daughter who is "high risk" had precious baby Hayden who has since had some difficulties.  I was encouraged yesterday that he is doing well.  It was great to see you Sue!
We are thrilled to let you know that Tom was at the high school yesterday working from about 10-2!  And he's back again today!  Please pray that he will maintain a confidence in who he is as a principal and that he can continue to keep the pace with working during the chemotherapy.  I know I am encouraged and sense the body lifting us up.

While Tom and I were still in Florida, Matthew had a cyst removed from his arm!  He is a tough kid (like father/like son) and didn't even need his mommy to hold his hand during this procedure!  Anyway, today he is having his stitches removed and he's a man going alone.

Our son-in-law, Zac is driving a van full (8) of teenagers from his youth group in Indiana to Pennsylvania for Momentum Youth Conference.  Would you please pray along with us for their travel safety and a great week of listening to and obedience to God's Word?  We know Sarah would love to be alongside of Zac, however we trust as she is faithful to her new job she will receive blessing too.  One day soon she can be that full-time pastor's wife that she will be so good at!

Last but definitely not least is a shout out to Dan & Brittany Magee...Happy 3rd Anniversary!  Continue walking with Jesus, trusting Him and being faithful to His calling on your lives and you will be richly blessed.  We so look forward to being together at Barefoot Landing and continuing our family fun tradition anticipating a baby Magee with us next time...WOW!  Praying for your wisdom in your housing situation, job changes, a move and a healthy pregnancy.
Okay that wasn't last...but it reminded me...when Tom & I arrived home our computer wasn't working.  We knew before we left that it was having "issues".  We are so grateful to Tom's parents and brother for the gift of the laptop...only God could time something like that!  I just pray that we will eventually be able to get the pictures and some documents off of the old computer.  I wanted to post Dan & Brittany's wedding picture but can't retrieve or even start the old computer so this picture will have to do again.



Home...Reality...Bills...Tax Audit...Sunshine...Bittersweet...

Lisa's parents and neice, Lauren & her husband Tim when we said "good bye"

Mille, too (mom's beloved dog...ha ha...she's my dad's hunting dog)

We arrived home Thursday around 11:30 p.m. with no delays.  Matt picked us up from the airport and deposited us in our quiet home with a table piled with mail, refrigerator and cupboards empty and reality hit.  I can't say I was in a good mood...I am learning to be thankful in all things, however I was struggling with being thankful to be home.  Yes, I was very thankful for the time away, precious memories made, family, beautiful weather, enjoying God's creation and the safety of a great trip...but, thankful for piles of bills, rain, and doctor's appointments?  I'm still working on that.  Friday filled up quickly with sleeping in, going through the mail, paying bills, unpacking, Tom's MRI and going to the grocery store.  Many people have called or texted wanting information regarding Tom's MRI.  We were initially going to meet with the radiologist following the MRI, however the radiologist called while we were still in Florida and postponed the appointment until July 18th.  We do meet with the oncologist on Monday, July 11 and we know that he will have received the report from the MRI so we are trusting we will get some good results then.
Tom and I enjoyed lunch on the patio today and we had a hard conversation.  He says he just doesn't feel "normal".  I truly believe that the anti-seizure medication is making him feel this way.  He was doing so well and really not requiring as much sleep/rest and since being back on the medication he seems like he's needing more rest and tires more easily.  We are both so thankful his appetite is back and he has put on some much needed pounds!  We continue to walk trusting God and knowing He is in control and has our best interest mind.  Tom's hearts desire is to be back at work this next week.  He said he's not sure if they want him back if he's not "full" capacity and I assured him that they did.  Even Tom's less than "full" capacity is way beyond my slightest capacity!  I know he can do some work, but with the difficulty of reading and his fatigue level, we will just have to take one day at a time.
We are so thankful to and for Kevin, Ulrike & Abby Brennan for keeping Addy for us while we were gone for such a long time.  I am upset with myself again for forgetting to get the camera out to take their picture when they dilevered Addy back to us.  They are such treasured friends who not only love us, but our dog too!  Addy loves going to their "farm" in the country and being the pampered indoor pet at their palace!  We so appreciate not only their keeping and loving her while we're away, but also picking her up and bringing her back to us!! 

Addy (R) meets Opie Homoelle (L) who Matt is dog sitting for!

Our Anniversary

Yesterday Tom and I celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary!  What a blessing to enjoy our day here in Florida.  We went to Manasota Beach and I don't think I've ever seen such a calm gulf.  It was perfect.  Tom and I went on a very long beach walk, swam and had a picnic lunch. Tom is trying to exercise daily to gain back some strength and build his endurance.  I couldn't think of a better way to spend the day.  We then ended our day with an amazing meal at The Crow's Nest.  Tom had grilled mahimahi and I had grilled red snapper, both were delicious.  Tom and I have said good bye to one of our favorite foods...fried fish!

This isn't a good picture, but wanted to put it on the blog...notice the sign above us!

"Amazing Grace"...we're experiencing it!

Last night my parents went to Ft. Myers airport to pick up my niece Lauren and her husband Tim, who are here for a week!  No break for my parents...they go from company to company!

Please pray for us as we enter back into reality.  Tom has his first post-radiation MRI on Friday.  Oncology appointment on Monday with the chemotherapy restarting.  If I can be brutally honest, I would much rather live my life in "vacation world".  I am not looking forward to entering back into reality.  Tom is ready to get back to "normal", whatever that is!  He is looking forward to getting back to the high school and finding his routine.  I'm still praying about my job commitments.  My priority is Tom and seeing that he is properly cared for!  We feel that I can make some firmer decisions about work once the MRI results are back.  God continues to teach us how to live our lives "daily" relying on Him.

Tom and I want to thank our parents for all the love and support they have given us and we know they will continue to give us.  We are truly blessed and we're so thankful for the time we've had together.  We will see them again soon, Tom's nephew is getting married on July 30th in Clinton, IL so we will all be together there.  My family will all (25 of us) be together in Tennessee for our annual family vacation.  We always look forward to our times together with family.  Thank you family...we love you!

Happy Birthday America!

Sunday morning we were encouraged by the sermon here at First Baptist Church of Venice.  America was founded on Christ and how far we as a nation have come from that foundation.  Our country needs revival and that begins with me!  Am I willing to surrender all to Him and allow revival to start with me?  I shared Sunday that it is so hard for me to step into the "surrender circle" apart from Tom.  Tom is such a vital part of my life.  This mornings devotions God spoke "You will never be in control of your life circumstances, but you can relax and trust in My control.  Instead of striving for a predictable, safe lifestyle, seek to know Me in greater depth and breadth."  Lord, You know I'm trying.

Sunday we enjoyed lunch at Marker 4 then Terry and Kelly were off to Ft. Myers to fly back to Columbus.  Tom took his usual afternoon nap and Mike, Cheryl and I enjoyed great conversation in the pool!  Dad and mom got back in time to then take Mike and Cheryl to Sarasota to fly back to Pittsburgh with then a very late night drive back to Akron.  Tom and I will never be able to communicate our love and appreciation for the commitment Terry, Kelly, Mike and Cheryl have made to us.  What honor and love we feel as they continue to give, love and commit to whatever we need.  Thanks guys for a great week of memories made and cherished time together...we love you.

Sunday evening we enjoyed the Sunday evening service at the beach singing patriotic songs, a challenge from God's Word and a baptism in the gulf!  A beautiful evening and God held the rain off until we were all back in the car!

Monday started early with me taking off on a bike and time to think and pray.  It was a cloudless sky and a beautiful time exercising my legs and brain!  My mom's bike is equipped with odometer and after 5 miles and time for Tom's medicine I was back at the house.  After telling Tom about my great ride he said "I want to go on a bike ride!".  So after blueberry pancakes for breakfast and trimming the hibiscus tree the four of us jumped on bikes and headed out for another 5 miles!  What a great way to start the holiday.  Lunch by the pool and then nap time for Tom allowed me more quiet time floating on a raft!  The rain clouds rolled in around 3:00, perfect timing to make fruit bowl and relish tray before heading to the Homoelle Family condo for dinner and fireworks!

Friends since 1984, when Tom met Kent Homoelle at WCHS, we have enjoyed our times with them over the years.  Kent is one of Tom's "best friends" and Tom always looks forward to his time with him.  We both love their family and Suzanne and the girls are all so sweet.  Our son, Matt is actually house and dog sitting for them while they are here in Venice.  Suzanne made fajitas for us all, Kent's mom, Suzanne's dad and my parents too! 

My parents received a VERY exciting phone call while we were there...they're going to be great-grandparents!  My niece Brittany and her husband, Dan Magee are expecting their first child in December!  As soon as my parents hung up Tom and I received a call to announce our "greatness"!!  What fun times and excitement ahead.  The storm rolled through and it cleared off beautifully for fireworks off the Jetty over the gulf...they were spectacular.

Courtney, Bethany, and Colleen Homoelle

Celebrating our FREEDOM

""Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

John 8:32

Boat, Brills & Breakfast

Yesterday we enjoyed the day on the inter coastal waterway.  The skies were a little overcast so it wasn't too hot.  We left Nokomis and went to Sarasota and then back for about a four hour boating adventure.  What an enjoyable day.

After the boat ride we stopped in Nokomis Grove for some of their famous "citrus" ice cream.  The popular flavors are orange, lime and pineapple.  They "twist" the flavors and Tom and I shared an orange lime combination cup...yummy!
A stop at a local produce stand gave us fresh corn (delicious) to go with our rice and beans dinner!

This morning Tom and I were able to enjoy breakfast with one of Tom's Bryan College basketball teammates, Ed Brill and his wife, Michelle!  What a treat to have them connect with us and make the reunion possible.  It is always good to catch up and know that their are godly people in our lives willing to pray for Tom.  Thanks Ed & Michelle for breakfast, fellowship and friendship!
Today is our last day before Terry, Kelly, Mike and Cheryl head back to Ohio.  We were sad to wake up to rain for our last day, however the skies are lightening up and the rain has stopped.  I think we will still take one last trip to the beach.



Florida Fun & Fellowship Continues!

As you can see from the picture above that we are relaxing!  But you also can see that the skies have been overcast.  We are not complaining about the weather, however it is very untypical for this area to have multiple days such as this.  Florida has not had a lot of rain and we are thankful for the rain the Lord has sent.
We are also thankful that Tom has not experienced any other "situations" since his seizure on Sunday evening.  It took him a couple of days to adjust to the medication so we just relaxed around the house here with little activity.  Mom and dad have been so accommodating to all of us and such great hosts.  They treat us like royalty and spoil us!  Most mornings a group exercises, walking, riding bikes or jogging.  Neither Tom or I are a part of that group!  I enjoy quiet times by the pool until Tom decides to get up.
Yesterday we ventured to Siesta Key Beach and we all got more sun than we thought.  After cleaning up we went back to the Captain's Table to enjoy outdoor eating on the bay.  However, the storms rolling in did not allow for outdoor eating or watching a sunset.  We did enjoy the amazing meal and continued fellowship.  Fun pictures were taken with memories made.

Today we are looking forward to an afternoon boat ride up the inter-coastal waterway.  Today the skies are clearer and it looks like it will be a beautiful day.
Our hearts go out to the Palumbo family.  Sunday, June 26, Barb Palumbo met her Lord and Savior at heaven's gate.  A daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and friend will be greatly missed here on this earth.  We look forward to seeing her again on heaven's shore.  We lift up her precious family as they celebrate her life today at her funeral service.