Brandon and Jessica Kerns

It's been almost two months since I last wrote a blog. It's been several months since I've even thought about writing my book. I'm exhausted. My mind is at a loss. I've been on a roller coaster for months now, and I think I'm finally getting somewhat accustomed to the constant up and down. I'm finding some clarity through the madness. Someday, I may write about all we've been through this last year or especially these last few months. However, today I just want to talk about my sister.

Jessica is special. She has unique gifts and abilities, but rarely had the confidence to use them. God has done a major work in her life the last few years. I credit Granite United Church for a lot of it. They helped her see her value and helped her develop her abilities. It's always hard to distinguish the truth from friends or relatives because you know they are bias, but when others say it you begin to believe it. That's what happened with Jess. She began to blossom and grow. I barely recognized the woman she became.

A couple years ago, a new kid showed up at school. He was humorous, kind, utmost gentlemen, and had an extreme love of ketchup. It was bound to happen. Not sure who fell first or if it was a simultaneous combustion, but God put these two together and nothing could separate them. It happened fast. No one understood it. It didn't make much sense, but Jessica and Brandon fell in love.

As quickly as the romance began, the relationship maintained speed throughout. They were engaged before the end of the year. It seemed as if they were married a few days later, although I know it was a little longer than that.

The words “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can't help falling in love with you...” played softly as she floated down an aisle lined with candles towards the love of her life. There was no mistaking this union. It was meant to be and no one could stop the magnetic pull they each felt.

They wanted to take their time and enjoy being a married couple before having kids, but God just laughed at their plans. Ten months later Kade Jameson Kerns arrived.

This last year hasn't been easy. They had to fight to be together. They struggled to make the wedding happen. They worked hard to survive. They've been in and out of the hospital for almost three months. And now today, as they celebrate their one year anniversary, they are in a hospital again.

Some may wonder why God is punishing them so, but I see it differently. I think of Job. I think of how God CHOSE Job because He knew Job could handle it. He knew that it would only make Job stronger. It would only refine him. I believe God has something huge for this couple. He is refining them and molding them and preparing them for something big. He has chosen them. I feel so blessed to be able to witness the work being done in their lives. They have lived through and survived what others would never even attempt if given the chance. Their marriage is stronger because of it.

Happy Anniversary Jessica and Brandon!