Gatlinburg pt 2

Well my first post about Gatlinburg came from a place of hurt and pain. Now that we are on our ride home, I don't think that's a completely fair reflection of our trip. Yes, there were uncomfortable moments of pain, but overall this trip was much better than I anticipated; I had prepared myself for the worst. One thing I have learned from this journey is that I am a lot tougher than I ever thought I was and I continue to surprise myself with all that I can handle.

So with this post, lets celebrate all the positives this trip held! Things I am thankful for:

1.) Time away with my hubby! Keal and I had a really nice time together - hiking, exploring the town, and just enjoying time away from everyday life. Not only this vacation, but this journey has brought us so much closer and for that I am thankful. Keal was so kind and sensitive of my pain this weekend. I am thankful that he was aware enough to constantly be checking in on me and making sure I was okay.

2.) Time away to go on a spectacular hike. It was great to be out and active. It was great to be surrounded by nature and have no distractions around us.

3.) Putt-putt golf with my adorable nephew (who did better than some of the adults in our group!)

4.) A day in the city of Gatlinburg - with a few hours to just me and Keal. It was nice to just stroll the city, peek in a few shops, and eat some deliciously unhealthy snacks!

5.) Starting each morning with some very needed alone time on the deck, listening to music, sipping juice, and enjoying the view.

6.) Overcoming a fear and riding the Sky Tram to Ober Gatlinburg. Minor panic attack in the process, but I basically rode an elevator...twice! Maybe there's hope for my claustrophobia after all!

7.) A ski lift ride up to the mountain with Keal and a fun slide down!

8.) And thoughtful texts from my family throughout the weekend, making sure I was okay. My mom who let me do my venting and helped validate all I was feeling. My sister who constantly texted me during putt putt keeping me calm! And for my brother texting me on Sunday morning, reminding me to hold on to my faith.

All in all, this was a great weekend getaway for us. We had some fun, I overcame some personal struggles, and I continued to grow closer to the Lord - with all the pain of this journey, I am thankful because each difficult experience brings me closer to God and makes my faith that much stronger. So, I thank you Lord for showing me another challenge that I could overcome in this journey!