It is hard to differentiate Gracie's birthday and her heaven due date - for we grieve both and celebrate both. It is a bittersweet time of year, and always will be. The last two weeks of February and the first week of March have been painful. It was our first 'go' at getting through this time of year in 'real life'.
Last year, although still painful, we had the amazement of Disneyland and the feeling of peace that we knew would come to us while in that magical place as it did in Disney World the year prior. We spent the 3rd (last year) embroidering adorable pink Mickey ears with Gracie's name. Wearing our purple Gracie shirts with pride, sharing her story with anyone and everyone who would ask. We took pictures at the castle. She was with us in every moment. We made an album with all of our favorite pictures of her. We chose our favorite pictures and shared with one another why we chose that particular picture as our favorite. We lit candles, we cried together, and then we celebrated her freedom and healing with a Dumbo ride in the night sky.
This year we were over-committed, sick, and just emotional. This year, life didn't stop, and we didn't guard the time as wisely. Sometimes we feel as though the world is encouraging us to just move along, when our hearts are screaming for us to put on the brakes!
We are so very thankful to you our dear family and friends who continue to rally around us! The truth is, at the time of the death of a loved one, support is everywhere you turn. As the days sneak by, and months turn to years, the support often dwindles. Yet, I want to take this opportunity to THANK YOU - all of you who have sent emails, phone calls, cards, flowers, FB messages, read my blog, gave me a hug, and had the courage to ask how I am doing in my grief. What a blessing it is to know such support and love. God has surrounded me with a wonderful family - family who remember along side me, cry along side me and help carry the load. He has also given me so many amazing friends who truly care about me and are willing to share a tear or two. Also, I am so thankful for the acquaintances and newly found kindred spirits I have met along the way who have encouraged my heart through a blog comment, or a FB message. What a joy it is to know that Gracie is still touching lives - it brings a smile to my grieving heart when I hear the story of someone who came across my blog and found comfort and peace.
As we enter Spring, my heart breathes a sigh of relief. Spring reminds me of a time when Gracie was flourishing - which brings a lightness to my step. I love the newness, the lovely colours, the freshness in the air! Spring also reminds me of the new life awaiting us in heaven, and the beauty that will be found there. As the cherry blossom trees around Gracie's playground begin to bud - it reminds me that one day I will see my sweet pea in full bloom - and so I wait in anticipation of this promise of newness of life!
Song of Solomon 2: 10-13
My beloved spoke and said to me, “Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me. See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come.
