This past weekend I was supposed to jet of for my first real girl’s get away weekend in over two years.  I  told you all about it last Friday. I was very excited and truly in need of some time of refreshment.  My gracious husband encouraged me to go and agreed to keep all four girls on his own.  Super Daddy for sure.  But…..

I found out early Friday morning that my sweet Papaw went home to be with Jesus.  He was 90 and just plain worn out.  I had to decide in about 1 hour if I would attend the funeral.   I made the call to Southwest and was able to change my flight for only $2.00 more.  That in itself is a God thing!

I added this traveling buddy:

Isn't she the cutest?

And 3 more days to my trip.  I was able to join my college friends for that reunion, but with my 9 month old in tow (see cute traveling buddy above).  My time with these amazing women was wonderful.  It just wasn’t quite the same carefree time I had planned.

On Sunday, I traveled to my 29linocolnavenue home town to join my large extended family and attend the funeral.  I was blessed to be there.  But, because of this unexpected turn of events, my family was not able to go the beach as we had planned.

I flew back home on my husband’s birthday.  Threw together a cake, commissioned the wrapping of his quickly bought presents by my 10 year old, and tried to pull together some sort of celebration.  Once again…not exactly what I had planned for his big day.

So even though it was not what I had planned, here a few things God had planned:

• Cuddling with my usually active non-cuddling baby during the plane landing.
• Seeing my dear friend Robin hold my daughter while talking about Scripture.
• My big girls getting extra daddy time – even going to Sea World and a movie!
• Getting some car time with my mentor and friend Lisa.
• Hugging my dad.
• Being there for my mom.
• Sharing some quality time with my family.
• Hearing my brother eulogize my papaw. It was awesome.
• Shopping and dinner with my mom.
• Time to catch up with family and friends I haven’t seen in years.
• The chance to say goodbye and remember the sweetest memories.

For I know the plans I have for you….Jeremiah 29:11