Short Story

September of last year was my Grandma's final month as part of this world (she passed away on Oct 1, 2010). She wrote a book of her life for us, all 18 of her grandchildren and our spouses. It was published/finished printing literally just before her death - there are no signed copies. A treasure for the rest of our lives. A peek into history - her life, love, loss and the Lord. We love you and miss you Grandma!

Prologue to "The Sun Still Shines", written by my Grandma, Clarene Shantz

My painting, "The Sun Still Shines", painted in 2001, was inspired by the reality that the storms of life - sickness, financial reversals, job losses and grief - come into everyone's life. At times we may flounder like sail boats tossed hopelessly in the wind and the waves of life. Sometimes we stand alone like cattle with our backs to the storm waiting it out. Other times we huddle together like sheep.

But in spite of the storm, the sun is still shining above the clouds. Its rays will once again flood the expectant spirit. The sun still shines because of the Son!

All my Love, Grandma
August 2010

Her oil painting was copied for the book's cover