I know it's a strange title for a post, A Wedding and a Funeral, but that really did happen for us recently.
When you finish reading, please read about Brain Aneurysm Symptoms. It's important to understand exactly what happens and the different symptoms people can experience.
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A Wedding and a Funeral sounds like the title for a movie, but it's something that happened to us. On Friday we had our daughter, Olivia's, wedding. It was the most beautiful day ever.
And then three days later, we had a funeral for my sister-in-law, Beth.
The Wedding
When Olivia and Tyler started looking around for a venue, they wanted something rustic...nothing fancy as that's not their style. I suggested a barn and we found the most beautiful barn to host our daughter's wedding. The Heritage Barn at MemoryTown in Mt. Pocono, PA.
When we went to visit the barn last August, they were just starting renovations. The owner told us to "use our imaginations." And we did. We fell in love with the rafters and the whole property surrounding the barn. We all knew this is where the reception would take place for our little sweet pea.
Here's a photo of the inside of the barn. You can see our son dancing with the bride.
The Funeral
As we were celebrating the wedding we knew my brother's wife, Beth, was not doing well. Beth suffered a brain aneurysm two weeks before and even though she had a few good days right before the wedding, Friday was not good.
We received word that she suffered a massive stroke Friday morning. Beth passed away the next morning, Saturday, with her family surrounding her.
Beth enjoying one of her favorite places, the beach.
My brother and his wife Beth.
And one with the whole family, including Beth's mother.
My two nieces were in the wedding. I was so happy they decided at the last minute to come and be a part of the wedding. They knew their mom was so excited for this day.
What started out as a lovely, exciting day ended with such sadness. My heart is aching for my brother and for my nieces, Mackenzie, Gracie and of course my nephew, Ian.
I don't understand why this had to happen. I can't see the whole picture yet. But I do know I will continue to put my trust and hope in the Lord, even though my heart is breaking right now.
"Though He slay me, I will hope in Him." Job 13:15
VA says
The anniversary always brings back all of those thoughts. May the Lord continue to bless your family as you work through this. We also had a young friend that died of an aneurysm. Thank you for sharing.
Sandy says
My husband died from an aneurysm at the age of 40 I'm sorry for your lost. Now I'm going to cook .thanks for the recipes
Lois says
Thank you Sandy. Hope you had a nice weekend and cooked something yummy.
Bridget L says
I'm so sorry to hear of your family's troubles. Thank you for sharing. I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
At Rivercrest Cottage says
Some times things just are. Your families loss is so sad, but good that you all were able to keep moving forward. Life goes on...
Christina Conte says
I am so truly sorry, Lois! I was praying for your sister-in-law, but missed this as I was traveling and I too have been neglecting my blog due to home life. What a terrible thing to happen, and I cannot imagine the grief your family is dealing with now. Congratulations to your daughter, and I will keep your family in my prayers. xx
GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart says
So sorry for your great loss
Sending best wishes to your daughter and son in law!
Catherine says
Dear Lois, Congratulations on your daughters wedding.
I am sorry for your the loss of your sister-in-law. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. xoxo Catherine
Nellie's Cozy place says
Hi Lois,
So very sorry to hear about Beth, she was certainly a beautiful and very sweet looking lady..........will be praying for all of the family involved. Isaiah 57:1 is a verse that has helped me many times with things like this..........it's an incite I never had before the Lord gave it to me.........and altho it doesn't take all
the pain and loss away it does help.
Olivia looked beautiful and the venue was really neat..........sure hope you will show us some pics of
the wedding in due time.
Again, so sorry for your loss..........and for your brother and his family.
Love and Blessings, Nellie
Shug says
so sorry for this loss.....such a beautiful lady. I know you all will have an emptiness for some time. Prayers for your Brother and his family....as well as the ex-tended family. 🙁
A perfect venue for a beautiful wedding....always nice to see couples as they begin their journey together...
Vee says
Such heartbreak...talk about the highs and lows, yet He was right there with you. Much comfort to your brother and his children and all the family and much joy to the beautiful bride and groom. Your faith-filled declaration warms my heart...