Bittersweet Gratitude

This week has been incredibly hard for our family. We found out last Tuesday that Stephen's grandpa passed away. Then on Saturday, we got the call that Grandma had passed away in her sleep. Both his grandparents in just five days. While we are grieving, it is easy to wallow in it, to live there in our grief. I'm trying to make sure that if he wallows, I can help him out. Grief is something we need to learn to live with. Here are five things I am thankful for this week: 

1. I am thankful that Grandma and Grandpa Hart are together. We miss them terribly, but I can't imagine grandma without grandpa by her side.

2. I am grateful the whole family has some wonderful memories with the Harts. The girls, Stephen and I spent several visits picking goodies in their garden (fresh strawberries and green beans!). We took a trip to the Enchanted Forest and even went to a fish hatchery. These are all things my girls will not only remember, but cherish. 

May 14, 2016 
McKayla (10), Grandma Charlene Hart, holding Alivia (7), Grandpa Rodney Hart, holding Natalie (8)

3. I am grateful that Stephen had the chance to go back and say his goodbyes. It isn't something we ever want to do, but I know personally how much it means to be able to say goodbye and hear it back.

4. I am grateful that Grandma and Grandpa got to live out the rest of their lives on the farm they loved. When they sold it a few years ago, I was afraid they would end up in a care facility or something.... But they negotiated with the buyer to stay in their home (buyer really only wanted/needed the land). 

5. I'm grateful for my faith because not only do I know this isn't the end for Grandma and Grandpa. I know one day we will join them in Heaven.

What are you thankful for this week?