Another year is almost over and I am so thankful to God for His rich blessings in my life. He is truly the Shepherd that the Psalmist describes. He guides my path, knows when I need rest and provides me with so much more than I need or deserve. My two boys fill my heart with pride and joy. Their hugs, kisses and declarations of love are priceless. I have the most wonderful husband who takes care of us with the patience and understanding that only God can grant. We are surrounded by family and friends, by people who care enough to pray for our family. God is so good!

With all this, I still have a nagging question that I ask myself...did we do more harm than good to the ones we left behind? Those were some of the best times in my life and I still care so much about the three. We really treated and saw them as our own. But within the past 6 months, we've been finding out about the hurt and resentment they feel. This kills me. It keeps me up at night and eats away inside me. I've tried reaching out. I've tried explaining. It feels like they will always consider it a betrayal, an abandonment.

I don't ask for understanding or forgiveness. God, I just ask that this hurt doesn't get in the way of their relationship with you. I can accept being written off. And I know that there are many who have supported us and shown their appreciation. Thank you for keeping in touch and allowing us to continue to share in your lives.