Our annual fall trip to the North Cascades

Each year in honor of Asher's birthday, we spend a long weekend in to the North Cascades. It is hard to put into words what a special place this has become for our little family, but the first word which comes to mind is refuge. Aside from the jaw dropping views and overall detachment from the outside world, it has become a place where we can remember and yet continue to make lasting memories together as a family.

Four years ago we stumbled upon this wonderful inn in the mountains. At the time our hearts were heavy, our dreams were shattered and we needed a space to be and feel. Each year since we have made it a point to return to the place where our hearts first started to heal. 

The path of grief has been a windy one, studded by heartache, understanding, longing, love, disappointment, confusion, triumph, frustration and peace. Since we cremated Asher it is nice to have a place we can visit which represents him. Each time I visit, I feel him in the sunshine on my face, the wind at my back and the joy I feel in my heart. I find it to be no coincidence that when we went hiking the rain held off until the moment we set foot in the car, nor how we are privileged to often have sunshine and blue skies during an often stormy time of year. I also find it to be no coincidence that I feel happy, whole and more grateful on Asher's birthday then any other day of the year. Year after year I am reminded how amidst your trials God will find a way to show you the miracles in your every day life.