On Friday we spent the day surrounded by family and friends remembering Jamie’s Grandpa; I never knew that my heart could feel so heavy yet full all at the same time. Throughout the weeks after losing Grandpa, story after story was shared, memories were recounted and the same sentiment was reiterated over and over again about what a wonderful, wonderful man he was. I ache with our human sorrow, finding it still so difficult to believe that he is actually gone and I struggle each time Jay asks if Grandpa is coming over or where Grandpa is. Moving on without him will be so difficult but I can’t help but feel SO richly blessed for the time that we got with him.

As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing. (New Revised Standard Version, 2 Tim. 4.6-8)