What Really Matters

Palm Coast, Florida
January – April, July 2024

An El Niño event guaranteed a season of hiding from heavy winds in the Bahamas. More importantly, we wanted to be available to fly home quickly for potential family needs. Joanie’s sister, Joyce, was in declining health after multiple brain tumors, surgeries, and radiation. So we stayed in Palm Coast for the winter of 2024.

Pelican at her winter home of Hammock Beach Marina, Palm Coast

Beyond bountiful, beautiful beaches to walk, Florida is home to scenic natural wonders between the coasts. We hiked trails among lush tropical foliage and sweeping wetlands. Since we stayed in Florida, we were able to drive across to Tampa to help Joanie’s sister, Jeanne, with painting the interior of her new home. And while we took a short trip to Colombia, Jeanne flew to Minnesota to be with Joyce. 

Colorful Cartagena

In amazing Bogotá

Sadly, Joyce passed away on July 11, 2024. Her faith grew stronger right to the end. One of her favorite statements was, “God is good, even when my circumstances are not.” She showed us how to live and die trusting completely in Jesus. Because of Him, we are thankful for our sure and certain hope that we will see her again in heaven. 

Joyce