Musical Daughter Leaves a Quiet Vacancy Behind

Our Christmas season had its sadness, but it was also very happy, and it was busy but very fulfilling. We came up on the last day of Crystal being home and realized we only had one more evening with her. so we made sure we just spent family time--including getting at least one picture of me and all my sweet daughters!

The children had spent hours several different days, cleaning up fallen trees and brush from places where the storm had blown trees over.

Crystal was blessed to help on a couple of those days and earn enough money to pay for the fuel for her trip home for Christmas! 

 The kids and Jonathan brought home logs for the mill and some for firewood. 

 

Here is one load!

The last night Crystal was home, I asked her to play a song or two on the piano. When she is home there is always music!

Whether piano arrangements or CDs playing or just the music of her laughter!

Sam decided to help out the music, as well as Hannah.

Sam thought some extra high notes would sound nice!! 

However, he decided to run away from the camera!

Ho, ho, ho, too late, Sam!

I love the different arrangements Crystal tries out. 

But then she had to pack to leave, and some of us helped her carry her stuff upstairs to be ready to load in the morning. 

I managed to get up in time to help her load her car, and then moms try not to show all their emotions as they hug their firstborn daughter goodbye again and pretend to be okay.