No newsletter this week…but some personal updates

Posted by in inspiration | 44 comments

After six years of books, newsletters, membership websites etc. I’ve come to know many of you quite well.

I don’t share a lot of personal details typically outside of my membership site, but the past few days are full of the kinds of events that I need to share.

First some good news:

My wife Andrea and I spent some time the last few days in Guatemala visiting our soon to be daughter we’re naming Aven. This is our third international adoption. Here’s a website that we set up that tells more about our views on adoption and shows our other kiddos.

Here’s one of the first pictures of us together. It really says it all I think…

And here’s a picture of Andrea holding her at “cross hill” outside of Antigua:
Antigua

We also got some bad news this week however.

While we were out of country my grandma (we called her Mamaw) passed away.

Here’s the article from the local paper. I got the call from my dad that she had died literally a few hours after that picture of me above was taken. It was a strange mix of emotions for one day.

Her husband, Papaw died nearly two years ago.

Imagine the most honest, loving, caring and genuine people you’ve ever met. That was them. The long line of people that came to the viewing tonight (and for my Papaw) was testament to the many lives they’ve touched. In my Papaws final days I got to tell him that he had set the bar very high and I hoped I could be half the man he had been. He just smiled back because his strength was leaving him. If he could have spoken he would have said something about how proud he was of me. I could see it in his eyes.

My Mamaw went a bit more suddenly. As recently as a few weeks ago I told her that she would likely outlive us all. She loved life and loved people. She had even started her own business recently (now you know where I get the bug)!

The funeral is tomorrow though – reality has set in. Thankfully my family all knows for sure that she is in a better place in heaven with her savior and with her life long love Papaw. They were married young (she was 18) and they have been apart only two times since. Once for the time required of my Papaw as he served heroically in WWII and the second time for the 23 months between their passing. It’s a true love story.

My cousin also held a new baby daughter in his arms just hours before our mamaws passing. We agreed tonight that we can only hope that some of the loving, kind traits that our Mamaw displayed so effortlessly were passed on to our beautiful new daughters.
Beautiful Aven
My little angel Aven…

  • Robbin Tungett

    Jim, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am also very excited to hear of your new daughter! I can only imagine the mix of emotions for you and your family.

    I pray that God will bless and comfort you and your family during this tough time of losing someone you loved so dearly.

    I also pray that God will continue to bless you and Andrea and your growing family. Aven is beautiful!

    I'm sure your Mamaw (and Papaw) are looking down and smiling at renewal of life happening in your family.

    I hope you get to get Aven permanently soon!

    Blessings,

    Robbin

  • John

    Jim,

    Congratulations on that new little heartbreaker in your arms. She'll run you through the full gamut of emotions over the next years. I wish you joy.

    Be glad your Mamaw's passing was sudden. My wife and I just returned from burying her mother. My mother-in-law lived with us for eight long years as Parkinson's Disease slowly stole her vitality and rotted her brain. Far better to go quickly, in my opinion…

    Take care…

  • http://tentmakersbytrade.com Don

    Jim,

    My condolences to you and your family, but as you said, you can rest in the comfort that she is with her Lord and Savior. Thanks for providing the testimony of her life and sharing some of the influence that she had on you.

    Blessings to you and your family. I pray that all goes well with the adoption and bringing her home.

    Blessings,

    Don

  • Michelle

    Please accept my condolences to you and your family. It sounds as if you were blessed to be surrounded by some wonderful and amazing people, and I am sure the two new additions to your family will be as well! Take care, Michelle

  • http://www.cluelesschristians.com Clarks

    Jim,

    We're sorry the temporary separation from your Mamaw. What an incredible inheritance she has passed on to you though.

    With equal (maybe more?) :) joy, we are rejoicing at your time with Aven.

    In this week of coming and exiting, we can still say, Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

  • Khadijah

    So sorry to hear of your loss, my condolences go out to you and your family. Congratulations on your new bundle of "sugar and spice and everything nice"…till she starts walking… :) just kidding.

    Thanks for sharing the testimonies.

    God bless,

    Khadijah

  • http://www.wealthyhabit.com Anthony

    Hi Jim.

    This is Anthony in Kingston, Jamaica. Thanks for sharing. Please also accept my condolences at your Gran Mom's passing. I can relate.

    I appreciate all of your efforts online as I believe you genuinely try to help, not just sell all the time. Believe me, that puts you heads above many others.

    The pictures are great. It reminds me to write up for my vacation next month.(:0)

    All the best,

    Anthony

  • http://www.vegasauctioncoach.com Dave Harber

    Hey Jim,

    Yesterday I was so happy for you reading about your return from Guatemala and your imminent adoption of Aven.

    Today I am saddened by your loss…

    I truly believe that when God closes one door he is always there to open another. It's a shame that Aven will never know her Great Grandmother but you are fortunate that your boys will always remember her. Not many children ever even get to meet Great-Grandparents much less are able to keep them in their memories for a lifetime. You (and they) were blessed with that.

    It was great seeing you (and Ron and the boys) in Boston and I look forward to meeting up again with you soon.

    Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

    God Bless,

    Dave

  • Allen Farlow

    I'm so sorry to hear about your loss, Jim.

    But I have a feeling she enjoyed a full life. I read the obit notice and couldn't help but think she was one busy person! From welding in WWII to being a business owner, she just couldn't sit still, could she? And raising kids on top of all of that? Wow!

    And even retirement didn't satisfy her!

    She must've been one fine lady indeed and it is my loss that I never had the pleasure to know her like you did.

    But, this is the way it is supposed to be, isn't it? We are all here for only a short time, and then, off we go! On to bigger and better things!

    I can only imagine the shear joy your grandparents now feel being back together.

    (You just gotta know she's starting yet another business 'up there'…)

    All my best to you and yours,

    Allen

  • Sandy

    Jim,

    I am new to your website and haven't even finished reading your book yet, but you make me feel like such a part of your "web family" that I wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to you and your family in the loss of your beloved Mamaw. She sounds like a wonderful person and when I get to heaven I would love to meet her!

    I also rejoice with you and your wife in the adoption of your beautiful little daughter, Aven. Friends of ours from church are on their way to Jamaica right now to get their little Chloe. It has been a long drawn out process but thank the Lord that she is finally getting to come home!

    Thank you for sharing such a personal part of your life. You are all in my prayers. May God bless and comfort you.

    Sandy

  • Gloria

    Oh, you take care of what you have to. So good to know your priorities are in tact.

    Your grandparents have left a precious legacy in you, that's for sure. What you share with us is immeasureable.

    And God's got their souls….thank God!!!

    Many blessings and virtual hugs to you and your family.

    Gloria

  • http://shopperschoice.net Steve

    Jim, my condolences to you and your family at this emotional time in your life. Your daughter look BEAUTIFUL! I have a 18 month old girl at home and she is my whole world. Welcome Aven! You have a great Mom and Dad who love you.

    Blessings,

    Steve

  • Ed S

    Aven and the other children have a new,

    Very Special Angel watching over them.

    Every Blessing,

    Ed

  • Gloria

    P.S.

    Congratulations on your new Life chapter. Good, long, healthy and successful lives to each of you!

    Gloria

  • http://www.juncampbell.name June Campbell

    So sorry to hear about your grandmother. It's always difficult to lose a loved one. Congratulations on your new baby, though. Many blessings to you and your family.

  • http://www.auctionsellerstips.com Susan

    Jim (and Andrea),

    I will be praying for your family as you lead your lives without such a blessing of your grandmother. Life doesn't ever seem to be "normal" again after such a loss, but different, as I am sure you know from the loss of your Pawpaw.

    Although Aven might not have ever met her, you will undoubtedly share stories of her Mawmaw that will inspire her and shape her. I can't think of any great-grandmother who wouldn't be tickled by that!

    Praying for peace that surpasses understanding…

    Susan

  • http://www.bubbadahsbuys.com Joann

    Jim,

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am excited for your family with the addition of your daughter. I hope she will remind you off all that was good in Mamaw.

    My prayers are with your family on this sad yet also happy day.

    Joann

  • http://www.misspellingsmakemoney.com Sandy Hall

    Hi Jim and Andrea,

    My sister and mother passed away within the last 2 years, so I know the heartache you must be enduring.

    Knowing that Mamaw and her husband were true believers in the Lord, should be a comfort to you and your family.

    You have my sincere condolences.

    And my prayers are with them and you.

    On a positive note, I think your new daughter is simply cute as a button.

    Great smile. (Just like her new dad) :-)

    Enjoy your new addition to the family.

    Warmest Regards,

    Sandy Hall

  • http://HomeBiz.Waynester.Net Wayne Larimore

    Jim, what a precious picture of you and your soon-to-be daughter, Aven. The picture reminds me of how our Heavenly Father adopts us when we realize our lost state and cry out to Him – unmerited Love. I am sorry to hear about the passing of your mamaw. But, I rejoice in knowing you can be assured of seeing her again. "Weeping may last through the night, but Joy comes with the morning light". We'll keep you in our prayers. Your boys will finally learn to make way for a graceful little sister now! I feel sorry for the young men that come courting for her in a few years. They'll have a difficult time getting past The Boys.

    Many Blessings Jim,

    Wayne Larimore
    http://HomeBiz.Waynester.Net

  • http://josephratliff.name Joseph Ratliff

    Jim

    My condolences on your loss.

    But…

    Spending time with your daughter is a blessing absolutely.

    Joseph Ratliff
    http://josephratliff.name

  • http://www.PLR-Health-Wizard.com Gail

    Jim,

    I never had the blessing of knowing my grandparents – both had passed before I was old enough to remember them. My condolences on your loss and what a blessing to have had them in your life.

    Your little girl is an Angel! We have a little one from Guatemala (now informing me that she MUST clean her tea set in the bathroom sink) who is four years. She is our fourth and also sent to us from God. In fact, she is the only one of the four who looks like me :)

    God bless you and your family!

    Warmly,

    Gail

  • Kevin Griffith

    Jim,

    I just prayed for you and your precious family. You're such an inspiration to so many people. I'm so sorry to hear about your Mawmaw passing away but take joy in knowing she now has a brand new body! It sounds like you were very blessed to have such loving grandparents and to get to know them and spend time with them.

    Congratulations to you and Andrea for the great news that Aven should be in her new home soon. You both have such huge hearts and have been blessed with a generousity that isn't seen very often. Best wishes to you and your family as you welcome Aven home. Keep up the great work and keep loving your family and taking care of them first.

    Your friend in Christ,

    Kevin

  • http://www.many-hands.org Bill

    Jim – My condolences for your loss, and my congratulations for the latest addition to your family.

    You honor your Papaw and your Mamaw with the life you lead.

    Blessings to you and yours,

    Bill

  • Kenny

    Jim,

    What a beautiful little girl! Congratulations! I was saddened by your loss, but know that both of your grandparents are looking over you and yours now, from a better place.

    Sincerely, Kenny

  • Mary

    I didn't know what exceptional human beings you and your Wife are. I am honored to have connected with you through your Books. God Bless you all!

    M

  • Dee

    Hi Jim,

    Well after reading your blog I understand where you compassion and love of people come from and that being your parents and grandparents. It is sad to lose loved ones, but know that they stand close by loving you and guiding you as they did while they were here on earth.

    Your new daughter is precious. I have known and experienced loved one's dying as new ones are born or brought into the family.

    Love always endures and thank you for being the faithful one while all of us try to better our lives through this new media of the internet.

    God Bless you and your Family,

    Dee

  • http://www.FreeMonthlyGifts.com Hamant

    Hi Jim,

    You know The first thing my eyes went to was your cutie little angel.

    So beautifull and so cute indeed. I can imagine how much joy she will bring you.

    I was also really sorry to hear about your Mamaw. These times are so difficult and My Prayers be with you and your family at this time of sorrow.

    Take care

    Hamant

  • Nick

    Hi Jim,

    Sorry to hear of your loss. Take

    comfort in knowing your grandma

    has gone to a better place.

    Glad to hear of your gain! Aven's

    beautiful and is sure to break a

    few hearts!

    Funny how things work out. You've

    got a huge helping of happiness to

    balance your sorrow. That should

    help you all get through this sad

    time.

    God bless.

    Nick

  • Bobbie

    Jim,

    I just read your blog and I had to comment. I'm so sorry for the loss of your Mamaw. I lost my Granddad 3 years ago and I miss him all the time. He was, without exception, the most influential person in my life. Brain cancer took him, over a period of 7 months. It was horrible to see. Like you I was able to tell him what he meant to me and I'm thankful for that chance.

    Heaven has a new angel now and I believe your Mamaw and Papaw are together again, smiling down on you.

    I can't tell you how much your picture with Aven touched me. It is so beautiful and precious. Bless you and Andrea for all that you do for your kiddos. They are all beautiful. :)

  • Trisha

    Jim may God bless you with His loving comfort in your time of loss. You are an asset to the online community and both Grandparents would be very proud of you as you live on the family legacy of honesty, character and integrity! Congratulations on your new daughter Aven. God Bless!

  • http://ebay.search.com/W0QQfrppZ50QQfsooZ1QQfsopZ1 Linda Harms

    Jim and Family,

    God Bless you and your family and we all know mamaw has now joined pawpaw and they are happy together and they are feeling no pain as before. They are both smiling down on you and your success and I am sure they are proud to have a son/grandson like you.

    Your new addition is so lovable and beautiful. May all your dreams come true.Just remember mamaw and papaw are always watching and cheering you on and forward.

    mrslinda

  • http://www.ournewdiet.com Rachel

    Dear Jim,

    I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your Mamaw and that she did not get a chance to meet your new little angel. What an inspiration your grandparents are. They have produced a remarkable grandson to carry on their legacy and you are, indeed, an inspiration to us! My hope for you and Andrea is that the joy and activities surrounding having your new little girl will help to dissipate the pain of your loss.

    Warmly,

    Rachel

  • Mike

    It is such an outstanding mix to have sorrow due to the loss of your loved ones and yet to have more added blessings of new life. Just know that your willingness to share with us deepens my respect and gratitude for your being part of our lives.

    Thanks and God bless as you follow the path you are created to walk.

    Keep the Faith.

    Mike

  • http://www.ebaystores.com/Yeans-DIY-Corner siewyean

    Jim,

    I am always looking forward to read your weekly newsletter and was wondering why it was so late this week…until this info came along instead.

    I am so sorry to hear about your grandma. Be glad that she is in Heaven with your grandpa.

    On the other hand, I like to congrad you on your new addition to the family; Aven. She is a lovely girl.

    May God Bless you and your family.

    siewyean
    http://www.ebaystores.com/Yeans-DIY-Corner

  • Coach Pete

    Hi Jim,

    I was sadden to hear of your Maawmaw's passing. But I was gladden to hear of your new daughter Aven. The joy in you and your wife's eyes clearly showed that great love you have and will share with Aven. God works in mysterious ways many times a death is followed by a new life.

    Your faith is strong and I'm sure the memory of your Pawpaw and Mawmaw, their love, devotion and strength will be passed on to your children. In that sense they will live in your hearts forever. True love never dies. God Bless.

  • Shirley

    dear Jim and Andrea and family, so very sorry to read about your grandma, but as we all know she is re-united with your grandpa now in a better place. Many congratulations on your new daughter,she is beautifull. Lots of love to you all.God Bless and take care.Shirley.

  • Barbara

    Jim,

    I can't think of anymore to say that hasn't already been said. God gives us the poeple we love as a gift and we must give that gift back to him someday. It looks as if your new baby is an angel. God Bless you and keep you through your time of grief!

    Barbara

  • Suzanne

    Your new daughter is precious! Congratulations!

    I'm sorry for your losing your grandmother. I lost my father only 6 weeks ago, and my emotions are everywhere right now. I hope you find peace in knowing she lived a full life, and was very much loved by her husband and family.

  • http://SandmansProfitCenter.com Sandy Bergstein

    Jim,

    Congratulations & Condolences at the same time. It sounds like you had to give an angel to get an angel.

    God Bless you and you growing family.

    Sandy

  • Matt

    What a beautiful baby!

    I have just become a grandpa & was able to spend a week with my daughter & grandson.

    There is something very wonderful about having a new baby. They cause us to focus outward & give us a renewed sense of hope.

    I am sorry for your loss of "Mamaw"..

    Now the wheel of life turns..from her to your new baby!

    Enjoy & savor every moment. She will grow up so fast!

    Peace,

    Matt

  • http://www.all-round-success.com Mike

    I'm very sorry for your loss. I know a bit of how you feel since I lost my brother who was 51 just a few months ago to cancer.

    But even with your loss, it looks like you and your wife were given a great gift and blessing in that beautiful child you were holding.

    My prayers and thoughts are with you.

    Mike

  • Ken

    Jim,

    I am sorry to hear about the loss of someone so close to you. God bless you and your family during this time. And congratulation on your new beautiful. What a wonderful thing to adopt children (I was also adopted). I wish you many moments of happiness and joy.

    Take care,

    Ken

  • Neil

    Jim

    My personal condolences on the passing on your grandmother. yet in this there is great joy for oyu with the addition of this little bundle to your family. As bittersweet as it is….May God bless you at this time. Lost my mom last year so I know the heartache. thanks for all you do…Im learning and hope to see fruition soon.

    Neil

  • Jody

    What a thrill to see the look of happiness reflected in both your and your daughter's faces—that's the kind of relationship you are passing from your grandparents on to her. That's the best way of honoring them, Jim, carrying on their way of living. Best wishes,

    Jody