Trip to Iowa contrasts

Last week my cousin's 18 year old daughter Kalleen was killed in a car accident. When we were in Iowa Memorial Day Weekend, she was graduating high school. The funeral wasn't until Monday, but we left Saturday morning for Iowa with my parents. Saturday afternoon we were able to attend my Great Aunt's 95th Birthday Party. I remember on trips to my grandparents when I was a kid and going by to see her, so it was nice to see her again. She said, "I never thought I would see this day". I always remember her having such a positive attitude and that has not changed. It was also very encouraging to hear her pray before the party started. It made me miss my grandma.

My dad (Ron), Great Aunt Leona, and my dad's cousin (Richard) they are like brothers and he always seemed like an uncle to me. It was also good to see Richards family. His son Alan used to come and get me when I visited my grandparents and take me out to do things. We also met Richards step-son Jacob and his family, he is a cyclist, so we hit it off really well. Unfortunately there wasn't more time.
Just like when I was a kid, the boys favorite thing was the motel pool. Henry and Eli enjoying some swimming.
Jack and Eli splashing around.
One of my favorite memories was eating at the Maid Rite in Marshall Town. With my grandparents, so I insisted that we make the trip. The boy's really enjoyed it, which made my day.
On the way to Maid-rite we passed by Mater, so on the way back we had to stop for a picture.
We also stopped by The Park on the way back, but there was not much of a park anymore, the entry was closed off and very overgrown. Not that I really had any memories of it, but it was still sad.
Not many people can say they have a park and a road named after them. :)

Sunday evening was the viewing and Monday afternoon we went to the funeral. One of the many things Kalleen did was manage the football team. It was really exciting to hear the football coach share truth from the Bible. It was exciting to think what an impact that had to have on his football team and the rest of the students. Not to mention when the pastor spoke, nobody left that place without knowing there was a decision to be made. Will you accept the free gift Jesus offers or not.

It was a weekend of contrasts. We celebrated the 95th birthday of a woman that lived for Jesus and a 18 year old life that was lived for Jesus. We don't know how long we have to accept the gift, but decision has eternal consequences. I'm thankful for the legacy my grandmother left. Knowing that me, Melanie and the boys will all see her one day, especially since it could be much sooner than we think.

Brent.