PAINTEDROCKFARM - Page: 6 of 11

Painted Rock Farm has been very blessed over the years with our Jacob sheep. We have learned so much along this incredible journey and have shared this with our children as they were growing up. FFA and 4H were programs that allowed us to conduct some breed awareness but also created some fun times for us as a family. Each summer, fair time would come around and Painted Rock Farm was there!

The 2002 Barbour County fair will always hold a special place in my heart. It was here where my youngest daughter, Kristin, showed sheep for the first (and last) time. Kristin selected her sheep that year and was faithful to work them every day after school. She walked them on their halters, parading them up an down the road, practicing for the show. Frenchie, her ewe lamb placed 3rd while Franklin received 2nd place and Reserve Champion in his group. Kristin was so proud of her sheep!

In November of 2002, In November of 2002, our family was crushed by the sudden loss of our daughter. As our family picks up the pieces of our hearts, we are reminded of how simply our precious girl viewed life itself. Despite various learning delays, Kristin had an impact on people everywhere she went. Her bright smile and genuine love for others was revealed in everything she did. She always had a "hello", a smile and a hug for anyone. She was very proud of her sheep, Franklin and Frenchie. Kristin not only won fair ribbons but also the hearts of others as she journeyed on this earth. I pray that God allows me to see others as Kristin always did -- just like He does: Looking past the outward action or appearances to get to know that real person underneath with complete and total acceptance of who they are.

In 2003, our Jacobs made another impressive showing at our Barbour County Fair. We took 15 of our sheep and brought home several ribbons, including GRAND CHAMPION RAM, RESERVE CHAMPION RAM AND RESERVE CHAMPION EWE! It was a lot of hard work but was also a bittersweet win for us.

This years Grand Champion Ram was Painted Rock Franklin -- my daughter, Kristin's ram she showed in 2002 as a lamb. Tears welled up quickly in my eyes as the judge selected him as the winner. He behaved so well in the show ring, always cool and collected -- seemingly enjoying all the attention!

Franklin, at left, shown by Chelsea Littler

As my beloved daughter now dances around the throne of the Lord God Most High, I am assured within my heart that we will see her once again, in Heaven, for all eternity.

For now, it is His peace, which passes all understanding, that can sustain us during our time of loss and grief. While it is difficult for me to even begin to understand the depths of His reasoning in this, I am comforted by His words of love and grace.

"Come unto Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." -- Matthew 11:28

"Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. -- John 14:1-3

"Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me with Your generous Spirit." -- Psalm 51:12