Blessings amonst the Crisis

Our neighbors house was half destroyed this evening by fire.  Rebekah came home from work and said the neighbors house was on fire and she could see flames leaping out.

Five fire engines, 2 fire chief suv's, more than 4 police cars and many, many spectators.  Irreplaceable memories are gone.  And looking at these photos you may wonder where the blessing are ---

The entire family got out safely, it happened in the daylight so it was noticed quickly, the firemen were able to save half of the house, and the contractor came just as the firemen left.

Belated Thanks

Back around 27 years ago, Jeffrey and I got married and then that night had a delightful reception in a restaurant and reception center in Provo - it no longer exists today.  I worked at the restaurant, learned a whole lot and fell in love with the family who owned it, Helen and Tom Powell.  Their son Chris was a chef and he sure hated it when patrons would send back their steak to be well done - or turned to shoe leather as he put it.  Helen was very patient and helped me in quite a few different ways in dress, manners, confidence, and watching her be a lady while managing business.  When it came time to get married, I naturally wanted to have it there.  When she realized I didn't have any money except what I earned for the wedding, she gave me a reception.  Now that is kindness.  It is only now as I watch the time, effort and money being spent that I realize how generous and kind she really was.  I wonder where she is now.  Tom died and she remarried and moved to St. Louis with her two youngest boys.  I'll always have a place in my heart for her, but wish I'd thanked her more earlier.  I guess it's just one of those 'pass it on' things.