Today is my grandparents 59th Anniversary!

[Taken last year at their joint birthday parties]

I am so amazed by them.

Both grew up during the depression. They met on a blind date. He was a soldier; she was a nurse. They lived in Yesler Terrace with my young uncle and dad while she helped put him through UW to become a weatherman. 

[The entire Surface family at my cousin's wedding this summer--Madelyn and Jack in utero]

Four kids, eleven grandkids, and four great-grand children later--they still amaze me.

[With Bapa this summer]

Today we found out that we're going to be saying goodbye to "Bapa" very soon.

Too soon.

I knew this day was coming and am so grateful that this year has afforded me extra time with them down in Portland. 

But that doesn't make it any easier. 

I know many people--many of you--who have gone through the same thing very recently. And its taught me to take advantage of every "I love you" and every moment spent together. 

But part of me still can't believe it.

I had always assumed that he'd be at my wedding. That my kids would sit on his knee and hear about life "back in 1938..."

Still, there is much to be grateful for. And through my tears I am overwhelmed with gratefulness to both my grandparents and to the Lord.

I've been reflecting on this hymn quite a bit lately, and in light of today, I'll end with a portion of it:

Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,

And all is darkened in the vale of tears,

Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,

Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.

Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay

From His own fullness all He takes away.

Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on

When we shall be forever with the Lord.

When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,

Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.

Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past

All safe and blessèd we shall meet at last.