i had to go away .

A sad goodbye to Oma, a joyful reunion of family and friends.

a little bitter-sweetness.

An amazing testimony, a life transformed.

Late nights, good talks.

so so so much laughter.

Tears.

Long travel days. ug.









I love my family.

I adore hanging out with my Sister, My mom, My dad, and my dear sweet cousins that make me laugh so so so hard. It was so good to see my aunts and uncles, and my dear Opa. i have so many good memories with all these folks. And i have hope of so so many more.

Memories with my Oma, however, i cannot make any more. No more memories with her, but many more OF her. I can tell my kids stories of when i was little and wanted to live at my Oma's farm... i can tell them about her strong love for Jesus, her faith in the sacrifice of His life for the redemption of ours, i can pass on her love for singing hymns (sorry to anyone who has to hear this one!) and praising GOd and saying scripture all the time. There are a lot of things i can try to pass on.... her great hostess-skills, her recipes, her laughter, her joy for gardening (i don't know if i can do this one!! ha - i think my thumb is purple or blue or plaid, but definitely not green - try as i might!!). And her tea cups: i will pass them on one day, as she passed them on to me. And every time i drink tea, i can smile and remember my dear sweet Oma.