There is an old adage that says: “the only thing in life you can count on are death and taxes”. I would argue that “change” should be in there as well.
I have never been one to look to far ahead. When I was younger I used to be really fascinated with people who knew what the wanted to do, set a path, and went for it. I would always think how can you KNOW what is going to happen 10 years from now? I can’t tell you what is going to happen in 20 minutes. What if you decide you don’t really like what you are doing, or school, or people or, or, or….. so many things.
Looking back I was right, change has been constant in my life. Forty seven (no comments please) years later, I am glad I wasn’t afraid of change. Change comes in so many ways. Natural change happens with growth and education. Elective change when we make life decisions out of growth and, hopefully, our education. Circumstances can dictate change by no fault or input of our own. Even people who spend a lot of energy trying to keep things the same, experience change as time passes around them. Change is ever present and unavoidable.
Interestingly, I was pretty adamant that losing Greg didn’t change me. Three and a half years later, I would now argue it didn’t change who I am although it did change the way I look at the world around me. Life is very complicated! At times life is really tough. Then come the times when life is really good. If you have experienced any difficulty it should allow you to really appreciate and see when it is good. It is those times we need to step off the wheel, take a breath and enjoy.
I believe we should be the sum of our experiences and make the best out of the hand we are dealt along with the choices we make. As I think about this next season, I tick back over the ones that have lead me here. A lot of different emotions come over me. It makes me smile with a touch of sadness and nostalgia as a chapter closes but mostly excitement for the future. Today, I am no longer a widow… I never thought saying that would catch me off guard but it does. I never minded being on my own. However, I now realize how much more I enjoy being a partner and being part of the “we”. And with that comes peace and happiness, comfort and hope.
Greg and Michelle Foster Blog 
I love that you started another chapter in the book of life. I’m hoping you’ve saved the best for last. Love you guys. Dad
Very happy for you! Change happens and life continues. You can still hold on to memories and still be happy. Bless you. Faye Geary Lewis.
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Hi Michelle, glad to hear you are doing good.. God bless you and the children. I worked with Greg at Bluelinx.
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From:”Greg and Michelle Foster Blog” Date:Sat, Sep 26, 2015 at 11:01 AM Subject:[New post] Seasons
Michelle Foster-Smith posted: “There is an old adage that says: “the only thing in life you can count on are death and taxes”. I would argue that “change” should be in there as well. I have never been one to look to far ahead. When I was younger I used to be really fascinated with p”
Best wishes, Michelle, I could not be happier for you, your kids and now your blended family!
I still say you are amazing and over these 3+ years I have learned so much from you through these posts and I thank you for being so generous with your time and insights!
Enjoy this next journey in your life and know how much you are loved and respected by so many people!
Nancy
Moving beyond your grief doesn’t mean you’ll forget Greg. You’ll always carry Greg within your heart as you go forward. And don’t be surprised if the grief resurfaces on occasion. After all, there will always be unfinished business between you two. However, finding a new secure loving relationship is part of the healing process and can be very rewarding, yet it takes courage. Celebrate your courage and the new possibilities as you begin this next chapter in your life. It can happen again. All the best!
It’s wonderful that you’re in a relationship and that you’re happy. I wish the very best for you and the kids!
Kelly Srsen
Hi Michelle,
I am very happy for you and your family! Life was meant to be shared with someone, I believe.
I’m sure your husband is a great guy and I know he has gotten a great gal, too!
All the best to you both! I wish you nothing but joy and happiness – you, your husband, your kids, and all your family.
Thank you for sharing so much of your life with all of us over the last few years – even those of us you’ve never met. In some way, I feel
connected to your family – it has been a privilege to see you march forward in your life with strength, courage, and optimism.
I’m proud of you and happy for you – it is not easy being/doing what you have done. You’re a great momma!
And if by chance, these blogs stop coming, that’s ok. I understand.
Be happy – you are a wonderful lady and have a wonderful family!
Maybe someday, I get to meet you and your family.
Take Care.
Bob Maeda
Bob Maeda
Freres Lumber Co., Inc.
Plywood Sales Manager
P.O. Box 276
Lyons, Or 97358
Office 800-758-4566
Office 503-859-4250
Mobile 503-989-1637
Fax 503-897-5074
bmaeda@frereslumber.com
It is so hard to see the “Light” when you are in the tunnel of grief and loss. The why me question arises and doubt creeps in even though friends and family attempt to prop you up through the terrible times of emptiness. Little by little the cycle of daily life demands that you change and joy and laughter return. The darkness of the past sad events softens as the “Light” begins to glow within you. Old memories will always be there as they are part of your life but now as they are recalled they become a warm and comfortable blessing that can swell your heart with joy and happiness. Change is inevitable part of life and it starts from the moment we are conceived and only ends when we join our Father in heaven. I am so glad you have found a new partner with which you can share your life and continue to build great memories together. May you be blessed with many years together embracing change as it comes always knowing that our Lord is there to carry us over the rough parts.