Granny Alvis and Abe

Thanksgiving 2010

Every family is different. If you don't believe me, simply try navigating the first year of marriage. Differences you would never know existed become glaringly obvious. For example, when is the "right" time to open Christmas gifts? Ryan and I have celebrated 16 Christmases together and still haven't agreed on that one. Should apples be stored in the fridge or on the counter? Who should wash the dishes- the person who cooked or the person who didn't? These are all things that we had different ideas about when we began sharing a home. Obviously, over nearly 16 years of marriage, we've found some middle ground, but there are still times when we look at each other and think, "You're weird."

As annoying as these differences can be, there are just as many that become blessings. That's what I've discovered as I have learned to love my husband's family. I married into what I affectionately call, "The Campbell Clan." My father-in-law is one of 9 children and they love being together. Through the years, we've enjoyed celebrating holidays and every days with this vivacious group of life-loving, hard-working, practical joke playing, chicken and dumpling eating people. When they begin telling stories about their growing up years, you can be certain that laughter will ensue. This amazing bunch of folks are one part of the legacy left behind by two faithful servants of Christ. I was fortunate to know both of them.

Ryan's grandaddy went to be with Jesus about 5 1/2 years ago. Since then, Ryan's granny has tried hard to be content without him. But after 53 years of marriage, it has been a struggle. I know that she has longed for heaven, at the same time she has desired to enjoy her family here on earth. These last few weeks, she has been very sick and finally, yesterday morning, she left her earthly shell and went on to join her beloved in her heavenly home. She leaves behind 8 sons, 1 daughter, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren who will join together in the coming days to celebrate her life of faith and love. We are so glad that our family is able to be here to share this special time of joy and sorrow as we say goodbye to Granny Alvis.