Beautiful Elaine

I was blessed that God allowed my path to cross with Elaine's at the Trinity Church's Mom's group. She was the leader of our small group for a time. She was really good at that! Great at encouraging and empathizing. She was there for each of us. She was always totally authentic. I remember Elaine's beautiful long hair. I remember her pretty raspy voice. At church, we recently taught the kids about the importance of inner beauty. Elaine was beautiful on the inside and out.

Elaine was great at connecting with people. I remember when she organized a gals night out with the women of our Trinity Mom's small group. We went to Charro's on Dana street off downtown Mt. View. We chatted the night away. She was a great conversationalist, and a wonderful listener. When we talked, I felt I was important to her. And I'll bet everyone with whom she had a heart to heart felt the exact same way.

Elaine was great at making you feel appreciated. Justin attended Highway's Vacation Bible School in 2008. I was a Station Leader at VBS, and had the pleasure of seeing Justin come through my station each day. Completely out of the blue, one day at VBS, Elaine brought me flowers! It was like the warmest hug ever. And I needed it. Who does stuff like that? Elaine, that's who.

Elaine and Patrick were a beautiful couple! Trinity would host opportunities for parents to drop off kids so the parents could connect on a date night. I remember seeing Elaine and Patrick for pick up (or was it drop off?) on one of those nights....they looked like movie stars.

Elaine loved the Lord. I was so encouraged by her tremendous Faith. In good times and bad. While Elaine didn't want to be defined by her illness, she wanted her experience to be a testimony. And it was, and continues to be.

Elaine was compassionate. A role model. Sweet and thoughtful. Desired the best for her family. I miss her so much, and am blessed beyond words to have had the honor of knowing her, and calling her "friend."

Julie Pederson