Tonight, we gathered together for a dinner to honor my mom. We said toasts and played I Spy and guessing games (some winners: Puma, Tasmanian Devil, igloo, scissors, and arctic monkey). We split our food and our cares. We laughed to keep from crying. Some cried, and some wanted to, but could not. All of us are hurting and missing my mom, our Babushka. She was a really once-in-a-lifetime person, very kind and beautiful and funny and strong in her own way. Determined and merciful, gentle and committed to her principles. We miss her so much every single day.

She sends us gifts to brighten our days. Today, I got baby Jesus in a King Cake Laura brought for the staff. I felt so happy! I have been thinking about Psalm 33 today: rejoicing! Seems counterintuitive because we are all so sad right now but in the sadness there is also supernatural joy, remembering the goodness of my mom, how well she loved us, and knowing her love goes on every single day of lives.

Mama, we miss you so much. You are really the Impactful Mom in our lives. Your impact will be felt for generations to come! And even now, in this moment, I know you are here and also in Heaven above. Thank you for this warmth that we feel knowing you are around us and watching out for us still, in big ways and small.