Happy October everyone!
First off I would like to apologize for the lack of the normal Monthly Faves that I announced the start of at the end of August. September was a personal whirlwind, a mix of wonderful memories and moments of heavy grief. I started this blog as a creative outlet and to share simple joys with others. With the goal to be as transparent as possible with you and me. And I failed. Last month I used the blog as a distraction from the real world, instead of being honest. I tried my best to put my best face on and work through it but that isn't real. I want to share with you not only the wonderful, awesome, amazing times but also the hard moments when my heart is heavy because that is life and maybe you are going through something similar.
Remember we are never alone.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. " Isaiah 41:10
At the end of August, my Memaw had complications due to an infected wound, so my mom ran down to Florida to help well she went in and out of surgeries. But both of my parents had planned to visit us in Birmingham for Labor Day weekend, so I had the biggest surprise when I woke up to my mom's voice coming from the other room that Saturday morning. She had driven through the night to make the trip. I would be lying to you if I said I didn't cry some happy tears. We enjoyed the weekend of golfing, shopping and sharing our favorite restaurants with my parents. The fun times were dulled by the announcement that my Memaw was not going to recover from the infection. That weekend she moved into Hospice.
Then on top of that, Hurricane Irma was reeking havoc in the Caribbean and tracked for Florida. I really do not need to tell you all about Hurricane Irma but the approaching storm recked my nerves. Most of my family lives in Florida and my mom was also in Orlando providing any comfort she could to my Memaw. The morning of Saturday, September 9th, hours before Irma was projected to hit Orlando, my Memaw went to meet her Savior. "The Lord is near to those who are broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18
Last weekend our family, friends and anyone impacted by my Memaw celebrated the life she lived and the impact she made. She was a strong woman, with a giving heart and lived with great love for her family, friends and the Lord. A lady of grace, I hope to be at least have as graceful as she, as I walk through life.
Even in the darkest of months, there is JOY! As much as I will remember this September with a tear in my eye, I also am reminded of the wonderful memories this month brought.
"For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:6
We turned the weekend of the memorial service into an opportunity to enjoy some genuine family time. What better way to end a chapter and honor my Memaw than enjoying each others company? My brother and his fiancé were coming into town, along with the Beau and myself, so my sweet mom planned a quick trip to Universal. Where we shared many laughs and had a magical time (no pun intended) just being together.
September also brought the start of Fall, and if you have been following along you could tell I love this season! To get through the month I definitely had my fair share of pumpkin spice lattes and bought one too many pumpkins. I am excited to see what October brings. I am praying you the month you have ahead, may you find strength to carry on and remember that the Lord is with you!
Blessings from Birmingham,
