Friendship is a valuable gift.

Linda, my friend, was a spirit that is apart of everyone she touched. What a lovely person, with a beautiful gift of telling us her perspective of life -all sides of it. Her passion for the simple things in life was always so inspiring.

When I hear the "raw blues", I will think of her. When I eat a homemade meal or sip a warm cup of coffee, I will think of her. When I meet a feisty strong, but loving woman, I will think of her. When I see the beauty in nature, I will think of her. Each year at this time, as the season turns to fall and the wind sweeps by, I will think of her. Linda, we miss you and cherish the time we had with you. Thank you for sharing so much of your soul with those that knew you. "funk soul sister", I'll never forget you.

She paved a road that showed us her courage and beauty, but most of all, her generous heart that never seemed to stop giving...... When I get moved and settled, I will plant a tree in her honor.

What's ahead?

When I look at this photo, I can't help but see into Brother bear's future...

• A young man who may travel the world
• Explore the deep blue seas
• Hike the tallest mountains
• Passport in hand and a backpack on his back
• Sandy toes
• Skinned up knees
• Messy hair
• Stories to share

Whatever he chooses, we'll be there for him, always. The gift we give him now is faith and a strong foundation at home.

I love this precious child and the man he will become.

A little girl's dream....

My daughter always tells me that she wants a "Tire Swing" and I love trees. One day I want to make her dream come true and hang one from our tree. Both our dreams will come true. One holds the other's hand.

Today we were driving around the neighborhood, enjoying the sites, something we love doing together. I came across this beautiful old tree outside some lucky person's home. So I snapped a quick photo. Just as Sister bear was shouting for me to turn the music back up, I was rolling up the window and filling her request. I drove away, with thoughts of where we plan on setting down our roots. We're about to make our move in just a few weeks and the excitement is quickly sinking in! Fall being my favorite time of year, it all feels right and gives me peace and determination to make this a smooth transition for my family. Thankfully, I have a wonderful husband who helps me make this possible. But above that, I have my strong faith. Couldn't go too far without that.