Friday

It is so hard to believe that yesterday (Thursday, June 24) was the 4th week since James' flight with the angels. Including his wife, daughters, grandchildren, sons-in-law, family and friends, we sure miss that man! Life on earth, isn't the same without him!!! He had that indescribable way of lighting up the room sometimes with smiles, but (being ever so "trashy") sometimes with that stubborn German opinion, those smiles could turn quite hostile and even harsh. However, he did seem to mellow with age. (Maybe..... I just mellowed, and it made it seem like he wasn't such a "bear" at those times. ) He had the best hugs that could almost squeeze the breath out of you. He was best known for his big hands, big heart, and big personality. My sweet friend, was classic "GRAVY".
Life for his survivors may not be the same right now, but we have God's assurance that we will be fine. "We will survive the grief, loneliness, and emptiness that is left." Of that I am certain. However, for right now, we continue to cherish the memories and hold on to HIS hem for comfort.
Life on earth is definitely minus one 6'3" "cutie", but I bet heaven is rocking and rolling from his impact.
God's blessings on this rainy Friday night,
Cathy

Final Destination

The girls and I just returned home from Red Bird Mission (First United Methodist Church) in the Appalachian Mountains in Beverly, Kentucky. It is a workcamp that aids the local families who are in need of construction or repair work on their homes. Most of the families average less than $9100 a year in income, but are rich in heritage and faith. James G. began his annual pilgrimage there about 5 years ago. It was here that he had his "mountaintop experience" and changed his life forever. He was a devoted pilgrim/worker/volunteer annually since his first trip.
In April, he and I were going to take a personal trip so that he could show me first hand why this place was so special. However, his health began to deteriorate and it was not possible. Therefore, the girls and I took our own trip this weekend. This was an awesome weekend for "James' girls" to laugh, cry, bond, and share in a unique experience in God's country. No one could possibly do justice to the mountains quite the way that the Lord can. I shall be eternally grateful that I had this weekend with our children. We are so blessed.
This weekend was compliments of James Lloyd Gravenmier, our tour guide and guardian angel.

Enjoy this hot, beautiful weekend.
Remember the Sabbath that God provides.
Blessings,
Cathy