Photo Credit: Crossing The Threshold blog
This past Saturday it was time to say goodbye yet again to our daughter, our son-in-law and our two grandchildren. They had been visiting from Atlanta, (still a very strange concept for me) for over a week, and we had packed everything into the 8 days that we possibly could.
I was tired, but happy. And now….S.A.D.
They wanted to leave at 5:30a., so we got up with them to hold Norah and Bradley one last time before the distance separated us. Tracy cried. I cried. Norah simply said, “Nana, I love you!” Bradley kicked his little foot – his way of expressing his love at two years of age. 🙂
After they pulled out of our driveway, Tom closed the garage door. We attempted to go back to sleep. After a couple of minutes I said, “I can’t breathe!” The effect excessive crying always has on me. Tom didn’t hesitate. He replied, “Do you want to go to the beach to watch the sun rise?”
🙂
He knows me well. In seconds we were on our way to New Smyrna Beach toting our chairs, our Bibles and our worship music. Suddenly, I didn’t feel so sad. I had Tom who understood my need to connect with my Savior. He knows the beach offers my best view of eternity. And the realization that he knows this about me without asking turned my sadness into joy.
When we arrived at the shore, the fog had rolled in. In all my years of coming here I don’t think I’ve ever experienced fog on the beach. It was eery. I could hear the surf, but the waves were invisible. As I pondered this, I realized what an encouragement it was to me on this day as I said goodbye to my precious family. Even though I can’t see them, I know they are there. My comfort comes from this fact and not the fog that separates us. It also comes from having a husband who cares for me beyond my wildest dreams. What a gift. And more importantly, what a Savior who created Tom to be the one I would share life and love with here and now.
How well do you know your spouse? Do you make room for them to be with the Savior?
Spontaneous wins every time, for it is in these moments when we sacrifice our plans out of deep love for our spouse! Do something spontaneous this weekend to show you care!
This is post #8 in the Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post everyday in July.
The Romantic Vineyard 
Debi, this post tenderly touches my soul.
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I’m so glad, Janie. I know you know what it’s like to say goodbye too.
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I love this blog!!! I lived in Orlando for a year and wish I would have known about this blog before!
With some stuggles in my marriage, I look at this blog every day to get a nugget of goodness to help me through!
Thanks!!!!
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Thank you Brittany. We’re so glad you’re finding The Romantic Vineyard to be helpful to you and your marriage. This is an answer to our prayers!
Blessings,
Debi
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Thank you Debi, for sharing your heart. After having said good-bye a few days ago to our son, daughter-in-law and two precious (5 & 20 month old) grandchildren (they live in South Korea) I/we had much the same experience you describe (minus the beach scene –not too many beaches here in Tucson). I thank God for a husband who loves as I do, and who shares my grief in ways that best ministers to my heart. Though we can’t hug our kids and grandkids over Skype, I’m thankful for it –to see those precious smiling faces. And I’m thankful for a loving husband who gives extra hugs and attention whenever I need it. Sinking into his welcoming arms helps. Thank you Lord, for husbands who tenderly care for us!
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You state it so well, Cindy. Thank you for sharing my burden – it helps to know I’m not the only one! We hope to see you soon! 🙂
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This is a beautiful post 🙂 I’ve lived a life of goodbyes – I went to boarding school at 9 years of age! Just on Monday this week I returned to the UK from a 2 week trip in New Zealand visiting my sister, and the tears were huge.
I’m not in a relationship with someone just now, but I know that when I am it will be with someone like your husband.
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