It’s been almost six months since I last updated everyone on our family.

Our summer was particularly difficult as we watched our husband and father slowly decline as the cancer took him from us little by little. Ultimately Hugo was granted his wish and was able to die at home peacefully in his own bed.

God also gave us a beautiful funeral that was truly a reflection of who Hugo was and how he lived his life. We were surrounded by loving family and friends, and God had directed us to a funeral home that was owned and directed by Christians. They went out of their way to make our day as easy as possible. There was also a large Jewish representation which reflected on Hugo’s abiding love for Israel and the Jewish people.

We have so many good memories from the years God allowed us to have together. Although I miss Hugo so much that sometimes it’s a physical pain, I am so thankful for the nearly twenty years that God gave us including eight children.

Shortly after the funeral we had movers pack our belongings up and take them to Edmonton while the children and I took a four week trip to visit family and friends in the Midwest who we will not be able to easily visit again. It was a wonderful time of making and renewing friendships, and perhaps someday I’ll do a post describing it.

We arrived in Edmonton, Alberta in early November and have been settling in ever since.

The church we are now members of is pastored by my husband’s best friend. The church just started in the spring, and is still small. We are excited to be a part of this church and watch/help it to grow.

God has been so good to us. This does not mean that there are no tears. That we do not wonder why Hugo had to leave us (in our minds) too early. That life is easy. What it means is that we are trusting that God has a good plan for us. That He had a good plan for Hugo, and that He will continue to care for us in the future.

I’m hoping now that I can get back to posting more regularly here. Life has calmed down. It’s actually starting to feel normal as we build routines back in place. Thank you for your patience and prayers.