Thank you everyone - had a family Christmas party last night at my nieces house and my 7 year old granddaughter was there. I held her so close and was so thankful to God that I could. She was so full of life and so excited about new dance moves she was learning and a new song she is learning. I just 'drank' it all in. So many many parents and grandparents will never see their 6 or 7 years old ever do that. There are times when I say 'why God??' but in the end I know he has his plan and one day it will all be made clear. Again my prayers are directed to Connecticut - may they feel God's comfort during this time of sorrow ..... Lynne

((Jamie and family)) Hope today went smoother for you than you were expecting. I continue to keep you and your family in my prayers. If possible, you might want to just bring things home in boxes and then gradually go through them over the course of several weeks. Perhaps start with less personal things of her's, such as books, computers, etc. As I went through them I'd pick out a few special things to keep for you and your family. A lot of the other things, household stuff, etc. try and think about how much good someone else could get from these things. From what you've said, Rachel was a very giving person. I'm sure she'd love the fact that she is still helping others. My thoughts are with you. What a horrible task that no parent should have to do!

Lavender Lass, I LOVE that built-in bed. I always dreamed of sleeping in a nook like that, as a kid! I wish it would work in this room, but the narrow width, and closet position is very limiting. I'm keeping that photo in my inspiration folder. Thanks! Colleennc, I agree, it's okay that the bed doesn't make into a level king. Those that stay the longest with us, no longer sleep well in the same bed. In fact, it's better if they're as far away from each other as possible. :-) Ah, snoring. I like your idea of using part of the closet storage for guests and part for storage. Writersblock, I have considered a murphy bed, but due to budget constraints, and fear of mechanism failure (and our four rowdy children), I decided against it. I agree, though, it would be the absolute best use of space in here. Shades of Idaho...I think you're right about the closet. Our guests use the hanging space, but just a few hangers, and could probably just hang that amount on a hook over the back of a door. Great idea! That closet is currently outfitted with tons of shelving, and we have most of our library of books in there right now. Lovely guest room you have! Marti8a, it is true, that a trundle pulled out beside the bed makes the room impractical. There's no room for nightstands, and it's hard for the one on the daybed to get out, with the trundle right there. I'm a little afraid of murphy beds, but maybe the two chairs, as in Summerfield's drawing, would eliminate the daybed/trundle problem! Wow Summerfield! I am so excited about your drawing! It's perfect!!! Are there brands that you recommend for sleeper chairs? I have a Drexel Heritage Sleeper chair, the Natalie, with the air dream mattress. I honestly, don't like blow-up mattresses at all, so would want to buy a foam-type. Does anyone here have experience with American Leather, or American Upholstery sleeper pieces? I think this is the desk I want for the room! Gonna have to start saving! http://www.crateandbarrel.com/furniture/desks/incognito-mocha-compact-office/s590617 Thanks everyone! I am getting excited about this room. It has been vexing me since we moved in over a year ago.

So sorry things have gotten worse. I can't imagine all the heartache. She has got to get away before he destroys her and the kids! I hope she has the strength to do it. Are the kids in emergency foster care?? I hate to ask but-"if she messes up one more time"-is that going back to Lee or is it drinking or drugs-gosh I hope not! so glad you and Brian are on the same page regarding the possibility of the kids coming to you. You will find a way to take them in and provide them the safety they so desparately need! Hope the kids get some counseling too.