It would seem that the flight delay would be unappreciated, yet I know God's hand was in it. What a blessing it was for Ashley to have an entire day, alone, in Hawaii, relaxing, reflecting, eating and staying at the Hilton for free!! What a sweet blessing this was for Ashley after she spent the past 8 nights sleeping on the floor.
Her plane was repaired, and her flight was uneventful and she arrived at the airport at 8:10 am. God gave us great favor as we made it the 45 miles through rush hour, in less than an hour. PTL. As we pulled into the parking ramp, we received a text message from Ash saying, "We just landed!" We arrived at the baggage claim, just as Ashley did.
The hugs were sweet, as we celebrated Ashley coming home....home to us...her family. As I stood back and watch our family of 4, I was once again amazed at how our family finds laughter in any situation, and as always, Andrew didn't disappoint. He loves to talk to EVERYONE...so he greeted almost everyone at the baggage claim as we waiting for Ashley's luggage; and then he found a way to make the removal of her luggage from the track.....too funny for words.
Of course, it was 9 degree's when we picked Ashley up, and Ash was in a tiny t-shirt, and flip-flops.....I'm SO glad I took her winter coat. (Even Annabelle went to the airport to pick up her big sister) Ashley couldn't believe how cold it was.
We then headed for breakfast....and we enjoyed hearing so many wonderful stories from Ashley's experience. One of my favorite moments that will forever be etched in my heart was watching Andrew (he was sitting next to Ash) lean over, put his arms around her, hug her and he told her that he really missed her!!! Talk about tuggin' at Mamma's heart!!
Upon arriving home the boys hauled 3 HUGE suitcases into our living room....let the unpacking begin!! So far, we've done 10 loads of laundry, and thankgoodness...we are almost done!!! Ashley also LOVED her room.......and in fact, I made another bulletin board for her to hang some outreach photos.
I have much.....much...more to share...but it's our first night home......and after Ashley's finished with her bubble bath, we want to make some popcorn, and watch a movie!!!
I'll leave you with a couple pictures.....more will be coming.
Have a BLESSED week friends.
Ashley at her DTS graduation.
Ashley with kitchen crew that she worked with.
Wow!
ReplyDeleteI got big tears in my eyes reading about Andrew's sweet welcome home to Ashley. How precious is that!
So, so glad she got home safely, Kim. I know it has to be wonderful just to know she's right down the hall instead of half way across the world.
May your times of reflection be sweet and may the Lord continue to direct Ashley's next steps.
Thought it was funny that Ashley came home in flip flops. We did the same thing after a vacation in Panama when I was a little younger than she is now. Thankfully the person who picked us up thought to bring winter coats too. You are a great mamma!
OH Kim...I felt like I was going right along with you as I read this beautiful post!! I could feel your excitement ...and love for your sweet daughter!!!
ReplyDeleteI am so thankful she is home safe and sound....and that you all are having a wonderful family night with popcorn and a movie too!
I can't wait to see pictures...and hear some of her stories!!!
Sweet Sweet Blessings to you my dear friend!!!
p.s. the music playing on my blog is Jim Brickman...he is a wonderful piano artist! I uploaded his music from "Playlists".
Hugs*
She is a beautiful young lady :) I am glad she made it home safely.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad she made it home safely. I know you must be bursting with excitment!
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing she must be to your whole family. I love reading about her.
Stay warm and she really is beautiful. Thank you for letting us have a glimpse of your excitement.
I can just feel your joy! I am so glad your daughter is back safe and sound! I cannot imagine when my girls will be that age. Sigh. It does go by quickly doesn't it? I better enjoy them hanging on my legs! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this! Such a blessing to read!
An extra day in Hawaii, not too bad! I am glad that Ashley is home safe. It sounded like such an exciting homecoming. I can't wait to hear more of the stories. She has such a beautiful smile and a beautiful heart for God.
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