The Silver Lining....Many Thanks!!

One of the many bright spots in this difficult journey that Brandi and I have experienced was how our friends and family has really stepped up and lended their support and prayers. I think it's appropriate that we publically thank those who have helped us get through this season of our lives.

One thing I've learned during this experience is that although Brandi and I have really grown in our communication and we've really made it a point to be open about our thoughts and feelings, we could not have gotten to the place we have without some outside help and counsel. Even though I want to be there for Brandi in every way possible, she needs to have female friends who can walk with her through this. It is healthy that other women, who have similar desires and emotional places that I simply do not have, are able to speak into Brandi's life at this time.

It was really a blessing to see Brandi be able to have some really good friends that she can lean on and the same for me. It was so good to have our friends give up thier time and ears to encourage us and comfort us. So, in no particular order, I'd like to thank some of the people who have been there for us. (This is an incomplete list. It's 3:50am and I've been up for 19 hours, so I'll have Brandi review this and amend the list as necessary.)

Mrs. Brenda & Mr. Glen, Brandi's mom and dad. They are simply "givers", they have given their time and treasures from before I can remember. They were there when we first married and moved off to South Carolina and since then have and continue to shower us with love and gifts. It is very much appreciated.

Peter & Shanna Forrestall, David & Lisa Latona. Shanna has been to Brandi what Randy (see below) has been to me, a great friend and mentor to Brandi. David and Lisa bother us with phone calls and requests for visits when we choose the hermit life! They are a joy to be around. You guys will forever be part of our lives. Thanks for everything.

Randy and Rachel Lambert, a great couple who we've had the priviledge to serve with. Randy has been a big part of my walk in this season. He is someone I can talk to, vent to with no guard up, I can be real with him. He keeps my eye on the main thing. Ya'll have been such a blessing.

Dennis and Shae David, some of our best friends that we don't spend enough time with. They have really comforted us and encouraged us and most importantly, let us be a part of their lives and their precious children's lives. We love you guys.

Julio & Sherrie Malera. Even in a brief moment, these guys really gave us hope and encouragement during the darkest time of this journey. Their wisdom and guidance kept us on the right path. That short visit has made a long impact on us.

The Austins, Brother Wayne & Mrs. Dee. Brandi and I have discussed that throughout our marriage, we have had several "spiritual grandparents" come into our lives and these guys have been that for us at this time in our lives. It's such a pleasure to serve under them in the marriage ministry at HPC. We know they have covered us in prayer. They are the best!

Brandi has had GREAT support from her new co-workers at HPC. Robyn Alise: Many thanks to the HPC Nursery for keep us in thier prayers. Claudia Berry and Yvonne Bourgeois have also gave Brandi great support, wisdom and encouragement.

Kristin Rentz has been such a great friend and been able to keep a smile on Brandi's face. She has wisdom beyond her years.

Earl Rentz, Tammy Landry, Mark Ammons & Doug Musso, Brandi's posse in the Finance Department has stepped up with great compassion and understanding when we've needed it. There's no place she'd rather be working. Thanks a bunch guys and gals.

We are so thankful that God has provided these great people for us in just the right time. It's really hard to imagine the last 5 years without these people sowing into our lives and supporting us and keeping our sights on the mission and vision. It would be easy to dwell on the delayed/unanswered prayers and disappointments and forget about the bright spots and the blessings. It's just another way He provides for us and continues to provide.

God is Good!