I trust the joy of our Savior has embraced you this season. The season of light. What a blessing to be together with family, the comfort of those familiar, those who celebrated many Christmases with Beej. The memories of his sweet presence among us, and all the things he did that were never discussed until they became memories of that which will not reoccur.

My brother (the photographer among us) has gifted us with framed pictures of Beej. Many, never seen before, as he has rolls of film stored in his home that he has not yet developed. How thankful we are for that (new treasures, yet to come). He has had prints made of pictures which have more meaning now than they would have.

One such example is from July 4, 1997 (Beej was 7). He has a sparkler in his hand. The picture is taken after dark, and is time lapsed. Though his face is blurry, his activity is clear. Brad chose a caption from Beej's writings... "I will not let my light be hidden." Appropriately, the movement of the sparkler has formed a "J." Signifying the very light that resided within his heart, the light with whom he now dwells. How precious is that? Another 'old memory' made new, with the precision and timing of a loving Lord, through a compassionate brother/uncle.

Another was taken summer before last. This one is 16"x20." I think my cousin Becky actually took the picture. BJ stands in front of the childhood home of my father, in Wisconsin. The rusty roof, weathered windows, and trim, thirsty for paint is the backdrop for a young man who strained to remember a man who played a huge role in his early life... one who no doubt, greeted him first when he was called home!

These are precious to us, all of us. For now they adorn the walls of this cabin, where 13 members of his family remember, and rejoice. For while we are sad that he is no longer with us, the Holy Spirit, the promised Comforter is ministering to our hearts, collectively, and individually. Thank you Lord Jesus, Light of the world.

Blog family, thank you so much for spending yourselves for us. Your constant prayers, e-mails, notes of encouragement, Christmas cards and gifts (Thank you Marti-how yummy! Thank you Laurel, how beautiful!) have been a great source of strength in a most difficult time. We love and appreciate you more than we'll ever be able to express!

dad