I am thankful for mine.

Because I cherish self-reliance and delight in adventure, the emotional tremor experienced upon parting from family baffles me. Though tired, the three of us wore smiles as we hugged, exchanging thank-yous and well-wishes for little more than a minute. As I left Gram and Aunt Betty at the hotel with memories of sunshine, pictures of whales, and heavy eyelids, I became aware of a great sense of loss. They are only returning to the lower 48. Yet my full heart suddenly felt strained. Upon looking into the blushing sky, I yearned to join my aching heart with the dancing violets and pinks behind the houses and trees. If only the trees and houses weren't there. I'll have to find the clearing Lyn took as to a few nights ago. There, I can silently pour out my heart in the warmth of the waning sun and empty all emotion into the passion of the breath-taking colors. Unfortunately, my clock and weary limbs convinced my hands to keep the wheels on course for Lyn and Stuart's house.
I knew I missed the most beautiful sunset and an opportunity to sit with the God.
Wednesday was our day together. Gram, her sister Betty and I rode to Seward on the Alaska Railroad. We prayed for several things. First, we had prayed for an open seat on the plane for Gram. After two days in the airport, she made the last flight. Secondly, we prayed for good weather and train tickets. Wednesday morning at 6:30 AM the clouds parted completely and the sun shone with invigorating warmth as we boarded car A. Thirdly, we asked that we might see whales and puffins on the boat tour in Seward.

Killer Whales. Not a common sight.

Puffins!

If you have a grandmother, treasure her. God rarely puts a Gram in our lives. I am thankful for mine.

Betty and Gram