Day 874 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends,

Easter Vigil service is my favorite worship service of the year. We start outside in the near darkness and carry our candles (the Light of Christ) into the dark, tomb-like church. The bible readings begin with creation and end with the glory of resurrection. Interspersed is a wonderful variety of music led by a quartet of singers (including Brant, of course), with bell choir, wind instruments, piano organ, and percussion instruments for the congregation.

Grayson was quite engaged throughout the service this evening. He watched intently as another Boy Scout handled the responsibility of building the miniature bonfire outside the church doors to begin the service. This was one of Grayson's responsibilities for many years. He listened keenly as the 8 or 9 bible readings were superbly shared, bringing the words to life. For several years, Grayson was one of the selected readers at this service where he shared his booming voice and sensitive reading.

Tonight, he was able to join in singing a few phrases of familiar songs and hymns and enjoyed playing a drum at the appropriate times during one particularly lively reading of the "fiery furnace".

Toward the end of hour two he started to get a bit fidgety, eager to be out of his seat. But by the end of the service, the church is filled with light and music and the tomb is no more. The joy carries us all out the door.

May all of your lives be touched by the promise and joy of Easter.

Peace,

Regina

Day 873 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends,

The sacrifices we make for our children are insignificant compared to the sacrifice God and His son made.

"God so loved the world…"

Regina

Day 872 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends,

Late this afternoon, after work, I took Grayson on a couple of errands to pick up last minute things for Easter lunch with my brother's family.

As we were pulling the car out of the parking lot at errand number two, I realized my sunglasses were missing. I stopped the car and checked my purse, my briefcase, the floor, and under the seats – twice. I drove back to the parking space where we had been parked. I went back into the store. I checked my pockets, on top of my head, and the neckline of my shirt. No glasses. All this time I am carrying on a narrative to Grayson explaining what I was looking for.

At this point, I am convinced that I lost them in the parking lot of errand number one and resigned myself that they were gone for good. Disappointed, (this is the best pair I have ever owned and only the third pair in 20 years) we drove back to the first stop. I pulled into the parking lot and glanced over at Grayson. He was sitting there grinning at me – wearing my sunglasses!

I needed that laugh today.

With joy (and not only from finding my glasses),

Regina

Day 871 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends,

Each day is unique and the same.

Grayson was in one of his down cycles today. He got stuck in a loop several times repeating, "Yeah, yeah" and smacking his lips. We don't know what causes it and it usually lasts only a couple of days. Today he had a hard time staying seated and got up even during meal times.

The loop of getting up out of bed has also started this evening. I expect to hear his door alarm a few more times before I can retire myself.

Without Brant in town to share the responsibility, I must say is good practice in patience for me.

Peace,

Regina

Day 870 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends,

Tonight after I brushed Grayson's teeth and coached him through putting on his pajamas, he gave me a big hug before crawling into bed. I said that I loved him. He said "Good".

It is very good.

Love to you all tonight.

Regina

Day 869 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends,

Grayson spent the morning being examined and tested by yet another physician. As usual, he was easily distracted and lost focus making it difficult or impossible for him to complete many of the tasks put to him.

This afternoon, Grayson was treated with my sister companionship. I know he enjoyed her company infinitely more. A hearty lunch, time curled up with her dog and cat, a funny movie and her always stimulating chatter.

Grayson was a happy, tired puppy when I put him to bed tonight.

Sleep well my friends. After a long week of too many late evenings working, I know I will.

Peace,

Regina

Day 868 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends

Today was a busy day for me – assisting minister at both services this morning with an ecumenical blessing of the palms between services with the other churches on our street. I was ready for a nap before we even went to lunch!

We finished the day with a grocery store run and dinner while I packed for another trip to Seatle where I'll be spending the week.

Pax!

Brant