Joy amidst the sadness......

Three weeks ago Thursday my brother, Jeremy, passed away. I have been on an emotional rollercoaster for the last few weeks. Most of the time, I can't put into words what I have been feeling. When I find words, they seem to be all wrong. Today, however, I have had two significant experiences about which I feel what can best be described as joy! First, it is almost 10:00pm and I have made it through today without having an emotional breakdown. For the first time since Jeremy's passing, I have not broken down into tears. While the grief is still everpresent, today, I was able to cope. Second, I got the news this morning that I passed my BEST portfolio. Those of you who have been following will recall that this subject was very stressful to me last year. In the midst of personal drama (the situation with my sister, Jessica) I was busy completing this major requirement for my teaching certification. I cannot tell you how elated I am to be done with it and to have passed.