Steve has been gone for almost 3 months. I admit that we don't have a countdown and I don't often think about how much time is behind or left. It's just one of those things that works for us. When I do think about it, I can't believe how fast the past 3 months have gone and I hope the next 4 go by just as fast. The kids and I have done very well. Sure we have our moments and our unexpected trials, but overall we are handling everything so much better than I would have ever imagined. People ask how we do it and , my reply is "we just do it." Somehow you have the strength, the extra patience and feel the prayers, love and support from so many.

The past 2 days we have been the hardest since Steve left. It's days like these I wish Steve were here, although I know it's not possible. But thinking of him being gone consumes my mind more than usual.

Preston left yesterday to Nebraska. He'll be out there until the end of July with Steve's parents. He'll be playing on the farm, riding horses, helping Papa with chores & being his shadow, playing t-ball, preparing for his 4-H competition, riding in a parade and having FUN! It was really hard saying good-bye to him. 2 months is a long time, but I know he is going to have a great time. He's been talking about going since February. He transforms from sports guy to cowboy very easily.

After a hard day I spent the evening with girlfriends, just what I needed. After a fun night of dinner, shopping and a movie, I was feeling much better. And then more drama first thing this morning! Mason had pulled a box of shelving onto his foot. He wouldn't stop crying and wouldn't stand on it. I called the Urgent Care on the Academy and luckily got an apt for 1 hr later. Fortunately the x-rays showed no broken bones. He was a great patient. He never cried and was so cooperative. We were in and out of there in less than a hour. I couldn't believe it. That never happens, but today I needed a quick visit with a positive outcome. Here is a picture of him with my glasses on, pretending that he was sleeping.

He didn't want to take the glasses off while the Dr was wrapping his ankle. Did I mention that he was seriously the BEST patient.

They think it's just a sprain. He still won't put any pressure on it. Needless to say, it's been a very low key day. We all took naps and have played on the ground lots.

As I was hanging out with the kids this evening, the doorbell rang. My neighbor a few doors down put together this beautiful arrangement of flowers for me! I told her that the past few days have been rough and that she totally made my day!

Tonight Taylor told Preston about Mason's accident. When I got on the phone with him he asked "Do I need to come home? What if Mason has to go the emergency room?" Preston is very tenderhearted and has a great concern for those who are hurt, sick, disabled, etc.. I told him that he didn't need to come home and that Mason was going to be just fine.

I have learned that somethings you can control and somethings you can't. Once again, I feel the hand of the Lord in my life. It's comforting to know that although I am alone here without Steve, I am not really alone!

P.S. And more great news, my parents called today to ask if it's okay if my Mom comes out next week. Um, I didn't have to think too long about that one! Thanks Mom and Dad!!