My time with Sue and Karen

I was worried. I was worried that I wouldn't get there soon enough. I was worried about Karen getting through each day. I was worried that I wouldn't be a good enough friend, meaning that I wouldn't know what Karen needed the most when I was there. I still worry. But my time there was precious to me. Thanksgiving to me was more than wonderful. I know it was a stressful time for Karen, but she really pulled off the day with love and grace. The food was incredible! That girl can cook! I can't say enough about Champagne Turkey. I was honored to share the day with Sue, who was awake for much of it, and able to talk a little. Mostly, I know she listened hard to all that was going on around her. I am happy that my mom was able to come and share the day also, and very glad she finally got to meet this amazing woman. I know Sue made an impact on her, like she does with everyone she comes into contact with. The follow days were hard. Sue was pretty worn out from all the activity, and was asleep and didn't wake up much by the time I would make it over to the house. But on the last day I was there something truly amazing happened. It was a hard and difficult day to say the least. This was Tuesday, Karen wrote about much of the day in her blog, so you know it wasn't a good day. But when Larry, the pastor came, and Millie Sues great friend, and we prayed.... God was there. I felt it all around us. First we prayed for Sue. I was able to lay hands on Sue and pray for the woman who has prayed and encouraged me for years. I just felt God all around us, and I felt him lifting Sue up. There was definitely a light there in Sue's eyes. There was joy there, and love all around. I was able to have a moment with Sue that I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to do. I so often do not tell people in person how I feel about them, because it is soooo hard for me. I can write it, but to say it out loud with that person looking into my eyes is extremely difficult. But I, with lots of help from the Lord, told Sue what she has always meant to me. I told her that I knew she has been praying for me, and that her prayer and influence has been strong in my life. Sue said she has been praying, and that she loves me. I just wanted her to know how much she has meant to me over the years. It was a short exchange, but one I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I also watched Karen going through so much, and with more strength than she knows she has. I knew this was hard. I know Karen feels that she is not equipped, but to witness all that Karen has been facing for the past month, well there is no words worthy enough. I have so much love and respect for Karen, even more than I ever had before. Karen, you are incredible. Your mother knows it is you taking care of her. She loves you more than you can understand. And, I did see pride in her eyes of her eldest daughter. You have had to make some very incredibly hard decisions, and mostly on your own. But you aren't alone, because I saw God give you the strength when you needed it the most. And even during the most difficult time during this time that we had to face, I was honored to be there with you. I hope you know that. I know I tried to make lame jokes at times, but there was no other place I wanted to be at that very moment. I just hate that she was in pain. My heart just hurts that this is all happening and that there is nothing I can do to make things better for you. But know that I love you. I love E. I love Sue.