COTTAGE DREAMS CREATIVE

A Winters Journey

So it began, a journey into the unexpected and into the unknown. One never asks for trouble but in some ways, this journey has been an incredible one – a bitter sweet one!  Bitter as we count the loss and let go of what once was but sweet as we find a new rhythm together and  journey into a future full of unknowns.

Waiting to fly home...
Waiting to fly home…

Today I heard a wonderful quote….

“The measure of success is how we cope with disappointment”

I hope and pray that as our journey unfolds, our lives will be deemed successful when measured by the above …..and  that we can continue to chose to embrace each day with faith, expectation but mostly an attitude of thankfulness!

HOMEWARD BOUND
HOMEWARD BOUND

The day we left Malaysia I was worried.  We had priority access to board the plane but when we got to the landing,  encountered great difficulty and realised that although he could walk a little he couldn’t walk upstairs. We held up the whole boarding process while we hoisted him slowly up each stair. His legs just wouldn’t work and his arms and hands were still not functioning properly. I’m so proud of him. He’s worked so hard to gain strength and control back.

Thanks to big brother Isaac (below) who saved the day by flying over, caring for the kids and helping us get home safely!

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Better days ahead.

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Day by day he’s getting better but unfortunately still remains hindered by the outcome of that awful day! I’m thankful that although he can’t surf or manage water with waves, among other things,  he is now able to walk everyday and enjoy his daily routine of praying while he does. Most days he can walk for an hour which is such a blessing to him.

We continue to pray for  that miracle that will see health fully restored and trust this season has all been for a reason….it seems that God has used it to get our attention and by doing so change our direction. I wonder and perhaps even question why it had to take something like this? But I’m also reminded that “He is the Potter and we are the clay” and it’s not for us to ask “why have you made me this way?”.  When it is all said and done, this life is just a portion of an eternal life with an Almighty God who works ALL things together for good and has a wonderful plan for our lives.

WHAT NOW?

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Here we are on a more successful holiday in days gone by. I picked this photo because I just love the boat behind us. It says it all! I think we’re about to make a “history tour” as we take this “God” journey to a new life in a new city and although we grieve as we let go of this wonderful town and church here in Busselton, the excitement is beginning to build each day as we look ahead to what God is about to bring our way.

We are ready…..let the adventure begin!

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8 responses to “A Winters Journey”

  1. shawnayd Avatar
    shawnayd

    Oh Steph you had me in tears… so glad to be a part of your journey… sure going to miss you guys so much! BUT God is changing your direction so all we can do is sit back and watch this whole new chapter unfold! Love you guys heaps

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    1. cottagedreams Avatar
      cottagedreams

      It’s so exciting but daunting too! This journey of faith is full of adventures! Xx

      Sent from my iPad

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  2. ngaio9 Avatar
    ngaio9

    “Beloved,” said the Glorious One, “unless thy desire had been for me thou wouldst not have sought so long and so truly. For all find what they truly seek.”
    ― C.S. Lewis, The Last Battle

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    1. cottagedreams Avatar
      cottagedreams

      I love that Pete! CS Lewis is such a legend! Hope we can get to that little place in the country soon!

      Sent from my iPad

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  3. Lesley Avatar
    Lesley

    Rom 15:5-6 May the God who gives endurance…no doubt your future will bring glory to God just as your last decade plus has done. God bless you guys – much prayer being sent heavenward for you! Angels ascending and descending…..

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  4. shazjones Avatar
    shazjones

    Beautiful blog, Beautiful! Where are you and Surfer Dude (he is what he is, even if he can’t right now 🙂 off to?

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    1. cottagedreams Avatar
      cottagedreams

      Hey Shaz, we are still in Busso but transitioning out of church but heading up to Perth later in year…an overseas trip soon for me …then a wedding in Bali july (our big boy) then home to begin packing up!!! Perth here we come! Not sure what we’ll be doing. I’m guessing I’ll have to work for a bit so the man can rest…that in itself is daunting! What…where…when? So we’ll be seeing ya!!!

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      1. shazjones Avatar
        shazjones

        Yeah, I know how daunting it was when I had to get a full-time job for the first time in 16 years! Now it feels very “normal” … look forward to catching up – let me know if I can do anything to help with the transition xx or if you need anyone to help you party in Bali! 😉

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