I'll be home for Christmas

Today, I began my commute home to Parkersburg! First time since August for this girl and I am so ready to be among the hills again! I woke up with such excitement (could barely sleep!), anxious to see my family with a feeling that it was going to be a great day! But the day has most definitely taken a turn in an unexpected direction. 

I do not normally push my faith on others, however God's presence on my journey home has been overwhelming. He works in very mysterious ways. I had gotten to my gate very early and had planned on writing a post during my wait when an older lady sat down beside me with tear filled eyes. First of all, I am very nosey... I always want to know what is going on. Secondly, I am a very caring person... I want to be there for everyone if/when I can. 

After a few minutes I felt that I needed to initiate conversation. I quickly learned that this lady had just found out that her 51 year old son had passed away in the middle of the night due to a heart attack. She was on her way to Boston to be with her family and do what no mother should have to do, bury their child. Completely and utterly heartbreaking. 

Following some dialogue I learned that she was originally from West Virginia (what are the odds?!) and that her story was extremely similar to the passing of my Uncle Rick. We shared stories and reminisced about the amazing angels God had gained. My mind is flooded with wonderful memories shared with such an absolutely wonderful man. Boy, do I ever miss him!

Our Last Christmas Together

Things truly do happen for a reason, and though we may not always have the answers when we want them, God will find a way to reveal them to us in time. I am a firm believer that God wanted our paths to cross and am grateful that I was able to be with this sweet lady in her time of need. 

As I prepare to board the plane for the final leg of my journey, I am even more anxious to get home. I am going to hug my family a little tighter, kiss them a little more, and tell them I love them so many times that it may get annoying. You never know when God may need another Angel and very grateful that I am able to spend the holidays with my family!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!

One of my favorite photos of us!