It’s always a blessing to have family visit, and my mother and older sister Beth came down (or is it up, since we’re at a higher elevation?) last weekend for the annual women’s conference hosted by the lovely ladies at Calvary Bible Chapel.

Those gals (along with the help of a few of their husbands) always put on such a fabulous event. They spend countless hours creating beautiful centerpieces and decorations that carry through the theme for that year. They bake cookies and sweet breads and baked potatoes. They line up music and a guest speaker who will fill our spirits and give us something to think about. They are always so gracious and welcoming to those of us from various denominations who join together in Christian sisterhood.

This was the 31st year for the conference, and my mother and I have been to quite a few of the events through the years. My two sisters have attended when they could as well. My little sister and her husband were out of town this year, and my father and older brother-in-law were dog sitting at their house while they were away. In the past they have come down too and enjoyed free programs at the university’s planetarium after church on Saturday. (We are fortunate to have so many programs so handy at Adams State.)

This year’s conference speaker focused on remembering how God has led us in the past, (which she could attest to in her own life as a single mom and breast cancer survivor who experienced new love, healing and direction in ministry), and passing on our knowledge and faith to others.

In addition to the good spiritual and physical food at the conference, we enjoy new and renewed friendships with folks we might not see except for that event. My mother especially enjoyed visiting with kindred spirit Peggy who has so many similar experiences in her life. I enjoyed getting to know my seat mate Beverly, whom I have known in a professional capacity for a long time but was privileged to get to know as a spiritual sister as well.

Mamma was having some health issues over the weekend, and my sister Beth and I tried to take care of her the best we could, keeping her as warm and comfortable as possible. Although I don’t know if it is related to the cancer or not, mamma is experiencing digestive problems. These may have been symptoms early on of the cancer returning, but medical providers did not pick up on it at the time. She has lost quite a bit of weight and strength, so I am hoping someone who is attending to her where she lives in Pueblo will figure out a solution.

As far as her cancer, the last scan showed some growth but fortunately not rapid. Most of the cancer was removed through surgery late last year, but there was an inoperable portion that remains.

God continues to use my mother in so many ways to bless and encourage others, and I am grateful for her continued presence in my life.

She and Beth and I enjoyed some time together Saturday night with special snacks and a movie at my house, and Beth and I enjoyed breakfast out Sunday morning while mamma had a smoothie and short nap before they headed up north again.

Of course Oso was glad to have extra people to pet on him and give him treats. “Grandma” always gives the best treats. He gave her many kisses in return.

As I have said before, every moment with those we love is so precious — to be savored and treasured with every breath.