I have been touched by both sadness and joy this beautiful week of spring.  A very dear friend passed away unexptedly earlier this week.  She was a sweet, kind eldrly lady thay  befriended me at church.  Today at her memorial sevice there was  not an empty seat in the place.  She has always greeted my children with a warm smile.  She also got my son and I into butterfly gardenin. I am sad that I will no longer get to sit and chat with her about butterflies anymore after church.  But am also happy that she is welcomed to the open arms of Jesus. I will miss her.  I also got to speak to my children on the phone yesterday evening.  My son was so excited to talk to me.  He told me about all the things he has  been up to.  It was so wonderful to hear that his little mind is still so full of wonder and curiosity.  My oldest girl is going to be performing in a play next week so I am looking very forward to seeing here there.  My heart is still so heavy though.  I am holding on and waiting for my day in court.  The system moves at the speed of dark.  I am being patient but I will admit that it is hard but grace has lead me this far and that grace will see me on.