Looking back I can see the dots connecting. God placed Derek at home with me when I got the news about Blake. HE knew how much Randy and I would need him. He rode with us to Bryan. He kept reassuring us that Blake was going to be ok. Derek was our rock. He never left our side. I watched this sweet boy of mine become a man right in front of my eyes. God was moving not only in Derek’s life, but in his sweet Sarah’s life as well. I was truly amazed how strong Derek was for Randy and I even though his own heart was breaking. Derek has always been my protector. For example, right after Blake was born the three of us went grocery shopping and a lady accidently hit me with her cart. Derek told her to watch where she was going because his momma had just had a baby. The lady felt so bad…she kept a apologizing! I’m so thankful that God gave Derek to me. He is such a gift!!
Our family was learning what true GRACE was…
Thank you Lord for so carefully placing family and friends in my life at just the right time. The days ahead were going to be long and hard, but HE never left us.

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” Psalm 28:7