It's time to take a ride...

Heidi was always more adventurous than I, fearless and motivated.  While four years younger than me she exhibited strength far greater than I possessed.  I was more timid (and moody, lol) For instance, she took horseback riding lessons.  This terrified me!  Just being near them I would become nervous.  It was probably one of the easiest days to keep me in line for my parents since I was so fearful of getting run over by one of the horses as they entered and exited the arena. 

Next to the photo Heidi wrote “NERD!”  She thought the clothes/uniform required was nerdy and never understood why she couldn’t ride in blue jeans and a shirt.  I agree.  It would be both more practical and a lot less expensive.  Regardless, Heidi wore the uniform and my parents always found enough funds to support this venture.  Today stars an eight day journey to Easter 2011.  I have a few more pictures from my gifted album with some more I’m looking to scan today. 

I received a beautiful message from a dear friend yesterday and she said “…you were always a good person even when you did not have deep faith…I'm glad the love of God makes you feel stronger but you have ALWAYS been GOOD....”  This was such a powerful message and reminder for me.  While the book focuses on the journey from Heidi’s kidnapping through today and it effect on me as a sibling, it is important to remember the eighteen years prior to that April day.  My friend is right and I have my parents, friends, family and God to thank for that.  It is our life experiences, the love from our parents and family, the relationships with our friends and the daily occurrences that build design and develop us into the people we are today.  Thankfully I’ve had a solid foundation my entire life so God was the cherry on top of an already “yummy” sundae, called life!  Thanks for the reminder…

Gershon Shofman once said, “Reflection is the foundation of any creative work” so instead of spending this week mourning the loss of my sister I choose to celebrate her life and Christ’s resurrection.  I hope you will join me as I share more photos of Heidi…the sister, not the missing! 

Lisa :)

Note:  Since I'm on vacation new posts will most likely occur after 8 a.m. instead of 5 a.m. (for you early birds) Early bird hours will resume on April 25th. :)