Our lives have begun getting back to normal, or as normal as they can get now.  We have had one nephew's (Steven) graduation from college in Chicago and another nephew's (Ian) graduation from high school in Denver.  We also had Brian's and Emily's wedding the weekend of May 20th in Detroit.  It was a wonderful occasion in which we celebrated with them during a ceremony at a conservatory followed by dinner and then a beautiful reception at a park by the lake the following day.  Their first ceremony, which took place on Jan.2nd, didn't allow for much celebration because of Katie's death, so this was a much happier time. If only Katie could have been there, but I'm sure she was smiling down on everyone.  The newlyweds have now moved to Australia for Brian's work on his PhD...we miss them a great deal. 

Bob and I have been busy with a project we are very excited about...a memory garden for Katie.  We planted it on the west side of our deck in the backyard.  It required removal of cement, bringing in compost and other necessary nutrients, building steps off that side of the deck, putting in a new pathway, and planting the plants.  It is beautiful!  We included a cement bench and bird bath that we had, as well as a special plaque, a small angel, and even a curling stone.  Steph bought Bob a pagoda that is also in there.  I think Katie would be pleased.

Before Brian and Emily left for Australia, we had a family meeting to determine what to do with the money given as memorials to Katie.  We looked at many possibilities and decided to distribute the money to several different causes that we feel Katie would have been happy with:  Rein in Sarcoma (an organization that promotes research and help for people with sarcomas); the United States Curling Assoc.; Angels Among Us (they assist families who have children with cancer); St. James Catholic Church; Alegent Hospice; Prayer Shawls Ministry; Masonic Cancer Clinic; and some "random acts of kindness" from Katie. We feel these are great ways to keep her memory alive.

Well, that's about it.  Now that school is out, I have a lot of  free time on my hands.  I will be working out in the yard and doing paper work catch-up.  It's best to keep busy. 

 Katie is always on our minds and forever in our hearts.   We miss her more than words can express.

Once again, we would like to thank everyone for their support, and please continue to pray for all those affected by cancer.  

Jenn