When I set out on this writing journey, I had no idea how many amazing relationships I would add into my life. This past weekend I drove a couple hours to attend the memorial service of my dear friend’s husband. How did I meet her? Standing in line at a writing conference many years ago. We struck up a conversation and we’ve been friends ever since. When I got the news that her husband passed there was no question of whether I was going or not. She’s been such an encouragement and blessing to me and now it would be my turn.

Another hidden blessing on this writing path has been connecting with my three great-aunts. Because of distance, I’ve not had the opportunity to get to know them, but through my weekly blog, I’ve grown to expect comments from all three of them. These comments lead them to comment on each others’ posts and sometimes share memories I had never heard.

Last month, my great-aunt Phyllis died suddenly. When I read over the comments on my blog, I quickly noticed her absence. She and my other great-aunts are my last connections to my granny and I didn’t realize how much I loved hearing from her. Now, one of the other sisters is having major health issues and I know there will come a time where I hear from her less and less. It’s been such an unexpected treasure connecting with family through writing.

I’m so grateful for these special relationships and thankful for each of you who take the time to read my writing week after week. Keep sharing with me. Keep commenting. Keep stopping me in the grocery store. My soul is warmed by these special encounters.