The events of the last few days have just been unreal. I am not sure I am grasping exactly what is going on, although I absolutely know...My mom is not coming home. 

So very thankful to have been able to spend time together w her in the hospital, although she was not responsive. As hard as it was, would not have wanted to be anywhere else.  This was our last time together as a family.

We have had the visitation, we have had the funeral, and are now dealing with the aftermath of sorting out the details. Some of you were able to participate either in person (socially distanced) or were able to view the live feed on the Church's Facebook page. Last we looked, there were over 1,000 views. Unbelievable.

Hoping that this horrible experience will bond me,  my Dad and brothers even closer together, as we have all experienced the same thing that I can't even start to describe.  We will continue to be just us FIVE and work hard to get through this. 

We are so thankful to everyone that has called, emailed, texted, and shared any kind words or thoughts with us over this past month and week. There is no doubt that my mom was and is soooooo loved. She will be a legend for all that I can only hope to live up to. #dobetterforjoy  The amount of children, families, and communities my Mom has worked with over the years is very impressive, and unknown to me - the depth of her impact until now.
Over the next weeks, months, and years - go out and do something to help others as often as you can. It will come back to you tenfold. 

I cannot stress enough - stay HOME! Wear a mask, Wash your hands and STAY AWAY from people. (easier said than done with some professions - but do what you can to get rid of this damn virus. It is REAL! Do not have a large gathering for Thanksgiving or Christmas. As much as we are sick of ZOOM or just the phone - we have got to keep doing this until this virus goes away. 

See attached my beautiful Mom in her senior photo! ;-)