Things that make you stop and think

My family just returned from a great week in Florida (I promise I will post photos soon) and we have been getting back into a regular routine.

But sometimes things happen that really make you stop and think how fortunate your family is, and how grateful we should be. Our trip could not have happened without the help of our parents, and my Aunt Betty who let us use her condo on the beach. We are so fortunate to have our families, a house to come home to, and healthy children, and friends who watch over our house and animals when we are away, just as we do for them. They are things that we sometimes take for granted.

However, today I found out that someone I know from the photo lab I use, and who I have met in person, has lost her house in the flooding in Iowa. This same woman's family was just hit by the tornadoes that went through Iowa also, and she lost an extended family member. So much tragedy in one family. You see these images on the news at night, but when you find out it has happened to someone you know and have spoken with, it makes it more personal, more connected to you.

It puts things in perspective. We have our troubles, but they seem to pale in comparison to Jana's current situation. So if you could, please keep Jana Bleeker and her family in your thoughts and prayers.