We left 80 degree weather in Florida to return to 32 degrees back in Minneapolis. I'm not sure I'm ready for winter - but for as much as I dislike winter, I'm not sure I'd like to move. We love where we're at and the life the Lord has given us here. We just had a wonderful time. We spent a day at Sea World and a day at Epcot (Sea World was planned and Epcot was a spur of the moment decision - and by the way, it's great to hear the Europeans pronounce Shamu - it sounds like Shuh-MOO - I loved it :) ), but the rest of the time we didn't do too much. We were able to visit with a few friends down there which was great. It was nice to spend time together and time reading and relaxing... all in warm weather.
A dear friend gave me the book A Grace Disguised: How the Soul Grows Through Loss. I read the first half and have found it really helpful. (I recommend it for anyone going through a rough time, not just death, but divorce, sickness, suffering...) One thing he mentions that Aaron and I have found to be true is a greater sensitivity to joy and pain. I feel like I'm able to really appreciate the joys and beauty in life, but I'm also more sensitive to pain, not just my own but pain in others. Another thing he mentions (when going through loss) is a more intense focus on what really matters - which I felt a lot when Payton was in the hospital and still feel. It's just been good to read something that can point out what I may not be totally aware of or see someone that has felt the same things I have. Well I guess that's enough "deep thoughts" for now (and if I could remember a Jack Handy quote, I would end with that :) ) Anyway, love Aaron and Heather ...Oh and we'll try to get a few pictures from the trip up as well.
11 comments:
we are glad it was such a good time for you two, what a blessing.
Aaron and Heather,
I'm glad that you had the opportunity to go on this trip together. I'm even more glad that you had such a wonderful time! Oh, and hey, I'm most glad that you're back home with us! We've all missed you tons! I really appreciate the fact that you keep writing to us. It helps us share with you all that you're going through and gives us a great way to know how to pray for you. I love you guys a ton!
Love,
Brittany v.G
Somehow I thought Jack Handey would provide some thought provoking spiritual insight. Obviously I have no idea who this man is. Is this one of his quotes?
If you catch on fire, try to avoid looking in a mirror because I bet that will really throw you into a panic.
Can I possibly have the right person.
Glad you're home safe. We love you very much.
Mom Minnick
I am glad you made it back safely and are continuing to grow in the Lord in new ways. He is so faithful to His kids. Please continue to post so we can keep following your journey. I love gleaning new things about Jesus from people who have experienced things I haven't. So thanks for helping us all in our walks with Him!
alli :)
Heather & Aaron,
I'm glad you were able to get away, and am jealous you had such nice weather! Welcome home - we are glad you're back with us. You remain in our prayers. See you soon.
Love,
Brian & Karen Johnston
What a fabulous idea Florida was for the two of you! I do pray your time was really refreshing and that it continues to be so. I left Minnesota the day before you guys arrived (based on the date of your blog) - it was bitter cold the day I left. . . so I know what you mean! I came back to about 60 degree weather here and most certainly can not complain! Continuing to pray for you guys! much love in Christ, Tammy Hunt
Welcome back to the blustery Midwest!! We are so glad to hear that your time together was relaxing and refreshing! We were praying for that. I am also so encouraged to hear how the Lord is using that book to help you put to words what you have experienced in the midst of loss... we have also been praying specifically for that... that you would be able to grieve and process what you are experiencing. We love you and continue to pray for you daily.
with love for the lahoda's,
Sarah
"When Gary told me he had found Jesus, I thought, Yahoo! We're rich! But it turned out to be something different." - by Jack Handey
Welcome Home to a beautiful relaxed couple. You both deserved it so much.
Continue on your jouney of healing. You guys are awesome and truly a witness to the Kingdom.
Love ya,
donna
I hope you don't mind a total stranger from Central Illinois (yeah - go Bears!) posting once again. I just wanted to let you know that you (and the donor family) are still in our thoughts & prayers every day. Your sweet baby has had quite an impact. I remember reading that someone just wanted to scream "STOP!" and let everyone know just what this world lost. Well, there were so many over here that have never even met you that had the same feeling.
You said the book you are reading talks about a more intense focus on what really matters. That is exactly what following your story & praying for you has done for our family. It has brought so many things into focus for us. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us & allowing us the privilege of lifting you up in prayer. So many strong, powerful people in this world...yet your little girl brought people from all over together in prayer & has changed the way some of us live our lives. What an amazing gift! So, on behalf of a whole bunch of praying Lutherans, thank you for your strength, your faith, and your willingness to share Payton with us all. May God bless you on your journey. We'll still be praying!
God's Peace,
Tracy K.
Hi Heather and Aaron :)
I don't think I've ever seen Aaron with so much hair! It was kind of shocking lol.. Anyway, I'm glad you had a wonderful trip to a condo on the beach woohoo! I love the ocean :)
I am so sorry to hear about Payton- we serve a marvelous God, and she is with Him now! You have been in my thoughts and prayers, as always :)
~Alicia (from St. Cloud!)
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