My current Bible study author noted that journaling is a way to share God‘s faithfulness. At the end of each year, she will spend three days reading through all her journal entries to contemplate God‘s faithfulness. As you know, this is a practice for me to write about what I’m learning in life, meaningful events, and God’s faithfulness. I wanted to take a moment to stop and celebrate you, my dear friend. We’ve been together since Vivian’s birth, so that would be about 27 years. The stories are numerous and filled with love. You are truly exceptional, my dear friend. Anyone who can call you a friend is indeed blessed!

Sandy,

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you—for the time we shared, for the adventure that led us to places I’d never been before, and especially for the quiet beauty of nature that wrapped around us like a gentle embrace. I can still see that turtle family, slowly making their way, and it struck me as such a tender metaphor for our own lives. Watching their little ones launch out into the world reminded me of our children—how we think of them, pray for them, and care for them, even as they journey forward. We may not always walk beside them, but we’re never far—just a few steps away in love, in prayer, in presence.

What comforts me most is knowing I have a friend like you—someone I can talk to about anything. You bring your thoughts and experiences with grace, never judgment, and that creates such a safe and sacred space. I’ve always felt like a pretty complex person (and I think most of us are), but in that complexity, there’s room for softness—for gentler thoughts, for deeper communion, for healing conversations that help us see the world and ourselves with more compassion.

In my Bible study, we’ve been reflecting on the power of the table—how it’s not just a place to eat, but a place where restoration and healing can unfold. I felt that yesterday. I felt it with you. That sense of being seen, heard, and held in the presence of another. It’s a gift I don’t take lightly.

You’ve given me such hope—not just for today, but for the days ahead. As I look toward retirement and all that’s to come, I carry with me the peace of knowing that friendship, faith, and shared moments like these will continue to light the way.

With love and deep gratitude,
Anna

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Psalm 133:1 — “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”