So…What’s next?

I haven’t posted in a while. Honestly, these last few months have been busy with finishing up speaking events, the girls end of year dance recital, and finishing up school.

It has been hard learning to navigate life without Aspen around. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about her. There are still so many times I reach for my phone to call or text her. So many things I want to talk to her about and so many things I wish she could be a part of. Most of the time it’s the little things like enjoying a thunderstorm or sunset together, dreaming about the next girls trip, late night talks on the couch, and just being around her crazy joy.

I added to the tattoo that she and I got when she turned 18. The phrase “May their memory be a blessing” is one used in Jewish culture. It expresses the hope that the person whose died- positive qualities and impact on others will continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who mourn. This holds such deep meaning for me personally. To know that Aspen’s impact did not end with her death, but continues on is such a special thing to think about. God continues to use Aspen’s life and death to shine HIS light.

I have had quite a few people ask me, ”so what’s next”?

Well-first off, we have decided to sell our house and move. The Lord has provided the perfect rent house out towards Anson/Hamlin. He also provided a buyer without us having to list the house. We love our house and while it is full of sweet memories, it will always be full of very hard, traumatic memories. We know we can’t run from the trauma we have all experienced, but believe this will give us a fresh space to continue to heal. We are excited to start a new season. We get to keep our animals and still live in the country which makes us all happy. The way all of the details came together was such conformation that we are making the right decision.

Secondly, we are working on starting a 501c3. We feel like we are supposed to keep speaking and sharing our story for a season. In order to do this well, we decided this would be the best way to continue. We hope to have a fundraiser this fall so stay tuned for details on that. We also need to have a trailer built for Aspen’s car. It needs to be protected from the elements so we can continue to use it. So, if you are reading this and want to help with this project please reach out!

We are looking forward to this next step in this journey and seeing where God wants to send us. We want to thank everyone for their continued love and support. We treasure every prayer and every bit of encouragement.