This will be short. But know that we have been planning to write an update because Claire turned 18 at the end of 2024, which has warranted an update for those of you that have been with us for the long haul, as well as other caregiver families that have joined along the way. We have information to share, particularly around the process of guardianship.
But first Altadena. We grieve with the rest of the country as we watch the urban wildfires decimate communities, homes, and senses of security.
It has hit close to home for us because my sister and her family lost their home in the Eaton Canyon fire this week. A friend of theirs began a GoFundMe on their behalf to help bridge the immediate uncertainty.
We are asking anyone to follow their own leading in making financial assistance available to anyone they know that has been affected, or to trustworthy organizations who can help with humanitarian efforts. We also understand it is early, and the sense of urgency to help is great, but very little can be done in the immediate aftermath (and in some areas, where devastation continues to advance).
We have in excess of 10,000 supporters, and if you are feeling the leading to help, we are posting the link to the GoFundMe for my sister’s family below. The back of the napkin math: if each supporter here gave $1.00, the GoFundMe goal would be met.
Thank you in advance and look for an update on Claire and our family in early March.
Our Claire Journal 
Dear T & T,
God’s timing is always perfect. After several moves, we lost track of you & sweet Claire. I thought of her from time to time over the last 8 years, BUT God brought her to my mind two days ago. I made a note to find out how everyone is doing. And yesterday I received your most welcome message. Thank you for keeping our email. Now I need to go back & catch up on your lives. Are you familiar with Robert Morgan & his writings? The Strength You Need is one of my favorite books. Do you even have time to relax & read? If so, it would be my pleasure to send you a copy. Just let me know.
Yes, the CA fires are beyond my comprehension. Is GoFundMe a safe reliable internet source to use?
A thought for you during this time from “Marie” in the Middle East:
A Different Abundance
“God is good not because of what He gives me or anybody else. He’s good not because of what He does and doesn’t do on this side of eternity. God isn’t good because of how He meets my expectations or because of the ways I want Him to show up. He’s good because it’s His nature. Circumstances don’t determine who He is. Why He answers some prayers and not others doesn’t determine His goodness. He is just good. . . . Even in the valley experiences and questions in our lives, we can still experience His goodness. . . . He is our Good Shepherd, He knows His sheep, and His sheep know Him and His voice (John 10:4, 14). . . . He has abundance for you.”
Blessings to all & Scatter Joy,
Sylvia Heinke
Wake Forest, NC (was Colo Spgs)
Hi again from North Carolina,
We would very much like to send $200 to your sister & family, but we don’t like the GoFundMe “add on fee.”
Is there a way we can send a check to you ($200) & you get it to them? Just wondering. Thanks.
Sylvia Heinke
Wake Forest, NC
Home 919-554-8636
Hello Sylvia! We will send you an email to the KI******@msn.com address that is attached to this comment.
We are so sorry to hear about your sister and her family’s loss. Thank you for letting us know and asking for help. It is Biblical to ASK. We will be praying too. Please give hugs all around to your family.
With much love,
The Johnson’s Keith, Jewel, Hannah & Sarah
Woke up this morning thinking about “our Claire”! It’s been 5 years since we’ve moved back from overseas so my old email is obsolete. So great to find you again.
I’m very sorry about your sister’s home. I do wish we’d hear more of how all those affected are making it now that the news is preoccupied with other things.
Crazy that Claire is 18 but I know both our girls are grown now too. I am grateful to read the updates and hear some good news among the continued process of healing and living.
Praying for you all afresh today as there has to be a reason you were brought to mind.