Home Again, Home Again

~Mountain Man's family

It's hard to believe that almost a month ago we were quickly packing up to go to Virginia to be with Mountain Man's Dad. Everything happened so quickly...the hospitalization, the preparation for the trip, and sadly, Ralph's death. We were about nine hours away when we got the call that ended any hope that we would see him one last time.

We returned home last Friday after three weeks with our families, and now the goal is to return to life as we know it, while we grieve, contemplate, and reflect on God's goodness and mercy. This was such a heartbreaking trip to make, and yet, in the midst of such sadness, God blessed us so abundantly each moment of the way.

~We managed to pull everything together for this trip in less than 2 days--that's quite a feat when packing for 9! We were also blessed to have friends who were eager to help take care of our home and our pets while we were away.

~After getting the news that PawPaw had died, we were told that Mountain Man's sister and her son were not far behind us (they live in Memphis), and we were able to meet up with them and travel those last hours together! Isn't God's timing perfect? What a precious gift that was.

~God blessed this trip with opportunities to renew relationships that had become distant in the past years and to bring healing to other relationships . There were many moments to say "I love you" over and over again to our family members.

~Mountain Man had the honor of giving the eulogy at his father's funeral, and Scribe was privileged to be a pall bearer.

~God kept us safe through many, many hours on the road...no flat tires, no car trouble.

~The children experienced the beach for the first time. They've been there before in the winter, but this was the first time they've enjoyed the water and the sand. They were simply delighted.

~We were able to celebrate two birthdays with family. Little Big Man turned 12, and Boo turned 4.

~God blessed us through the generosity of others. Family members abundantly met our needs while we were there, and we are so grateful beyond words.

~Mountain Man's employer was very gracious about giving him the time off, and we were able to take the time we needed.

~Though we did come home to a leaking roof, we are thankful it wasn't worse. And, God kept those nasty critters called mice away.

~God blessed us with the prayers of many friends while we were away.

I'll be posting many pictures of our trip, and while it is very good to be home, events like this move us to ponder where home should be now. We thank God that He'll show us His will in the days and months ahead.

Love,

Queen Mom