Justin went reluctantly to work this a.m., sure that the heavens would open again and make today a wash-out. At nearly noon, it is yet dry here, but extremely overcast. Yesterday afternoon the rains had let up but they knew the yards would be nothing but standing water or mud, so it didn't pay to go out and dig up people's yards with their equipment. I hope today is better working conditions for them.
I am watching the ongoing speech/filibuster by Senator Ted Cruz before the Senate, having gone on since 2:41 pm yesterday. I did go to sleep but woke up when the station went off the air during the night. I don't know what that's all about with Comcast, but I had a tough time finding a station that was not off the air. This normally happens in my room, not in the family room. Is it my receiver box or a connection outside, I wonder...
...and it's over. The Senate leader has taken the podium from Ted, and now more discussion and conversation will take place before the vote. Reid said Ted just wasted a bunch of time--by listening to the voice of the people these bills will affect? That speaks volumes about those elected folks so wildly out of touch with the citizens. May the Lord guide their deliberations and decisions today.
Yvonne and me reconnecting after decades of not seeing each other. Photo taken at First German right outside Linda's office door, by my cousin, Sandy. We were communicating for months via Facebook, but were able to touch each other after she moved back to Manty and I came up for my Christmas visit (note the red coat!)
My family experienced the sudden loss of my oldest cousin over the weekend. My friend/cousin, Yvonne, let me know late Saturday morning that her father-in-law did not wake up that morning. At least, Ronnie did not wake up in his bed, but rather, in heaven. Only the night before his wife and he dropped off a bucket of plums at the pastor's house and some at his mother's house, before going to dinner. He got up to use the bathroom around midnight, and then, woke up in heaven.
While this is very hard on the survivors, especially his 92-year-old mother, I can't think of a better way to go. His wake is tonight, and his service tomorrow, at First German. I wish I was there to throw my arms around my auntie and my mom as they mourn this loss. And, of course, to offer comfort to his widow, Sandy. Ronnie was such a character and easy to be around---he will be missed by so many.
This morning I was awake quite early, due in part to that goofy TV going in and out, so I watched a Compline service from MLC, recorded on Monday evening. Oh my...It really sets the tone for the day, besides the 'filibuster', as I consider my family and their dealing with this funeral and its build-up. Through my head goes the refrain again and again: "Into thy hands I commend my spirit...."
