Our Unexpected Gift

     Last week, we had the opportunity to have a wonderful week away in Destin, Florida.  What a blessing this was to us both.  We had a marvelous week relaxing, spending one-on-one time together as a couple, morning walks on the beach, yummy food, and even some fellowship with friends.  

     How did this trip come about?  Well, at the start of the summer, our dear neighbor and friend, Margaret, kept telling me..."When you and Eric are able, you need to go stay in my beach condo in Destin."  Well, I just knew that dream seemed far fetched as Eric was so sick and beginning chemotherapy.  I was sad that all of our travel plans this summer (and before the baby) had to be cancelled.  However, I kept praying that the Lord would just continue to bless us--even amidst our trials--and I know this trip was just one of the ways along our journey that he has blessed us.  Eric has been doing well enough between his treatments every two weeks that we just said, "Let's do it!"  So we did.  We finished chemo one Sat., and drove to Florida the next day.  Yes, Eric was tired for a few days, but after that was totally back to his normal energetic self!  I truly believe God gave us this trip as a special gift to us! 

     Not only did we have a wonderful place to stay and wonderful time together as a couple, we reminisced of our time together there almost three years ago, as this was our honeymoon destination.  While three years ago, we were full of anticipation of our future together, we presently look forward to, as Eric said, "Our best times ahead,"--specifically the arrival of our dear little baby boy in a little over a month!  

The view outside our deck.

They gave me the extras to my smoothie in this little cup--they must have known the baby wanted some!

                                                                           

Our friends Charlie, Gracie, and Aiden.  Charlie has been a mentor of Eric's for years.  

We always enjoy spending time with the Listaks.  We also had the chance to see their other children

Brittany and Chris for a bit, but Scotti was off at college.  Gracie made some amazing tacos for us too while we were at their house!!!!

Eric and Aiden

Beautiful Pineapple lamp at Margaret's condo!

                                                                                         

Eric and Charlie

On our way home, we stopped at Whiting Field Naval Air Base where Eric had his initial pilot training.  It was neat to see where he began his Air Force Flying.