I need to back up some.

The displeasure I had with my uncle had nothing to do with his choice, but everything to do with his timing. I will not deny that he has every right to choose what and what not to do. My problem was with waiting 'til the weekend when no other options were available.

It has been a day. A day of realization, a day of stress, and hopefully a day of deliverance.

No, the efforts to buy Fred's home place were not successful. There was one other bidder, and he paid a premium. Second time he has done this in a year.

I would like to inform everyone that the uncle did come in and he did attend the foreclosure auction. For his efforts we are appreciative. The parameters put on him by the "little bastard banker" did not allow the latitude needed to secure the purchase.

Fourteen of us had lunch at Memama's. It would have been much better if it had been a victory dinner.

The realizations are numerous. #1. They can't take our memories. #2. We have had the privilege and honor to have a tie to that piece of land. Something many of the younger cousins don't have and never will. It is their loss. #3. I believe I learned that I have more of a tie than my grandfather's son. To the land, and to the heritage. #4. By knowing my grandparents, and holding their memories, I hold something much more precious than anything these cousins will ever know. #5. Knowing that with this door closing, it simply indicates that GOD has something else in mind, and his plan is unfolding in his time and in his way. #6. GOD is in control.

Last week, I sent Jason a message. One that will remain private. But I will admit it is much harder to live it than to type it.

And finally, we are hopeful that the price has been paid and deliverance is at hand. It has been a long nine years. On numerous occasions we have thought "this has to be it" but each time we learn there is something else.

Hopefully, this is the end of a long painful ordeal.

FATHER, forgive me for speaking in anger. Thank YOU for the efforts of those who tried. We pray for strength. We pray for deliverance. LORD lead us on.