Bless you everyone who has taken part in this thread, and bless you Sallyanne for starting it. As I was reading the various posts the thought that came to my mind was how many of my very favorite people are going through hard times right now. Notice that I said going through. These are not permanent situations. Sometimes when we get down everything looks so bleak that we can't imagine that tomorrow will bring any positive change. As the song says "the sun will come out tomorrow." It may not be actually tomorrow but it will return. I promise you that. I have learned to call these times *valley experiences* and believe that in my life they have helped me tremendously in my walk with God. When we are on the mountaintop we do not need Him. He is there ready to listen and to help. Sallyanne I am glad you are attending church and getting some counseling. You are a strong woman and a wise woman to take these steps.

As you know, my mom is quite elderly herself (actually much older than your mom) and she is in a nursing home and, when I visit, rarely knows who I am. I know that I could never ever care for her myself, physically or emotionally, and she knew that too (before her dementia got as bad as it is now) and always said that she would never want to live with either my brother or myself. Though I feel the guilt of not being there for her, I know that she is being well cared for at an excellent facility and that this is what she wanted. I am so sorry to read of the passing of your brother. I remember it was on a trip for you to see your brother that we were able to meet up and hand Gabe over to you to become a camper.

Many prayers will go up for all of you with your various concerns. I have had some very rough spots in my life as well but they have passed. I know that yours will too. As my mother-in-law always said "just keep looking up because He is looking down."

(((hugs)))