Well that was a long time to be away. This month has been quite the experience, to say the least.

Two heartbreaking deaths, an uncle and a close family friend.

An unexpected health emergency of a family member.

A smaller health issue in another.

A bridal shower

A visit from three, out of state friends.

I hand addressed over 100 invitations.

Wedding planning is gearing up.

I somehow still managed to do my normal responsibilities, even if only the bare minimum. Household management, appointments, school and friend taxi, cooking and planning.

I'm tired in a way that feels sad. Grief will do that. Sleepless nights and stressful days leave me cranky and foggy headed. I hold tight to this promise,

"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" -2 Corinthians 12:9

If Paul and the disciples could go through all that they did, keep up with their ministry and still count it all joy, then so can I.

A friend told me to "let God do His strange work in my life" and I think about that everyday. It IS a strange work. It's like watching a movie where nothing makes sense until the end. You gets hints and can see where it might be heading, but never the full plan.

But I trust Him. I know His plans are better than anything I can conceive.

And there's always beauty. Even in grief and sadness, illness and uncertainty, beauty is everywhere.

The trees are dropping their leaves and changing colors. The mornings and evenings are chilly. The geese are back for the winter, I heard them fly over this morning. The kids are enjoying local football games and bonfires with friends. There's always something happening in the kitchen, a new sourdough project and a big pot of something on the stove. Wedding excitement. And the hay is getting cut and baled. I really do love this time of year.