bigger picture: seeing beauty during the time of death

Until about 2 years ago, after getting sober and starting a personal relationship with my Maker, I don't believe I really knew what it was like to see the good things in the middle of a tragedy. This week has proved a change occurred.

I have grown closer to my husband as a result of holding each other nearer than ever before. 

We have been able to visit with family and friends, some we are very close to, and others we don't get to see often enough.

We have bonded, grown closer, and talked into late hours in the night. 

I learned things about my father-in-law I never knew before. Some stories from my husband, but a lot from my mother-in-law and other close relatives. The different perspectives are so touching.

I have spent very special alone time with my kids to get them out of the house and let off some steam.

We have all been healthy throughout everything. 

We made it down the ski mountain safely after a huge storm, on our way to rush to my mother-in-law's house 6 hours away. 

I have been given so many opportunities to step in and help out when people just couldn't. 

Friends have shown such big hearts and caring gestures during our difficult time. 

Prayers were lifted up on our behalf and song lyrics and Bible verses were sent for comfort. 

Putting together a memorial service has kept us busy and let us all soak in the pictures, videos and stories. 

I am heartbroken for my husband. I knew his father was getting older and this day would come eventually. But no one can prepare for losing their daddy. And my best friend lost his daddy. My heart is breaking for him.