Moving Forward

It has been a very difficult winter. I miss my friend dearly, and not a day goes by without thoughts of the accident assaulting my mind, but I am thankful for the mercies and gifts God has given me on this journey through the valley of the shadow of death.

We, as a family, have grown even closer to Logan and his kids. They are such a blessing to us and I don't know how we would've come this far without their friendship and support. Stephanie's parents have also played a huge role in helping us heal... and I hope we have been a blessing to them as well. 

I'm also amazed at the outpouring of God's grace as He comforts me in the difficult days and fills me with His peace during those darker times. Pastor Glen once said that, as Believers we have a floor to the depth of our grief and that floor is called joy. Turns out, he was right! Even on the saddest days I haven't slipped into despair because the joy of the Lord catches me when I need it most. I'm also learning to trust Him because He is Sovereign and that is reason enough.

As for moving forward, I am still learning new things. The weather promises to clear soon and we have seen the odd street sweeper out and about here in Calgary... an exciting sight for any motorcycle rider! Last year we rode in March so we'll see if that can happen again this year. I am looking forward to getting back on Hopper but I'm also dreading it. There is this fear that wells up within me when I think about each corner... will we make it? Will I have to witness another tragedy? Will I BE the next trauma victim? Will I even enjoy riding? Without Stephanie's voice in the headset it is going to be lonely... this I know for sure. I need new riding buddies... girl ones! Guys are great but sometimes you just need a girlfriend, ya know?

We're planning another bike trip with a group of riders from here to Vancouver via Whistler then back along the #3 through southern BC and AB. Am I excited? YES!!! Am I nervous? Yes. Am I afraid? I'm trying not to be. God is with us and He holds the keys to life and death. 

And besides, Stephanie would want us to ride and continue to embrace the life we have been given with full enthusiasm... just like she did.

Trying out the electric bike at the motorcycle show in January. The thing whines like a little girl!

Sporting my new heated jacket. Happy Birthday to me!!

In Radium with Mom & Dad in February and this is all the snow we could find

Selfie with the deer in the background