One year ago today, our son, Caden Adair, was born. One of our dearest family friends, Paula, called today "Caden's heaven day," and I thought it was perfect.
For weeks, we have thought about how this day was going to hit us. We decided that it would bring with it a mix of relief and incredible sadness...and perhaps, hopefully, a little bit of joy at knowing our youngest sits at the feet of Jesus (on the first anniversary, it is hard to have the joy outweigh the sadness, I have to be honest).
Once again, we have been amazed and so grateful for the outpouring of love and support that we have received from friends and family. From beautiful cards, to flowers, to e-mail encouragement, to yummy treats and a homemade lunch, we have been so blessed today. It has been a gift to face this difficult day surrounded by love and lifted up in the prayers of others. So, to those of you who have provided that support for us, thank you.
The kids said they wanted to color pictures for Caden and release balloons in his memory, so we did that together as a family tonight. Brandon and I had thought for some time about what would be an appropriate way to commemorate Caden's "heaven day", and in the end, decided to just ask the kids what they wanted to do. So, that's what we did. And it was perfect. They have been well aware of what today means and have asked lots of questions and have been a little sad today, too. They miss their baby brother. What a gift perceptive children are.
One of the greatest reminders we have of our baby boy is our garden. I wanted to share some pictures with you. Things are popping up beautifully this year. The picture at the beginning of this post is of one of our first blooms on our magnolia tree. What great timing to see new signs of life! Here are some other shots of the garden:
Here are some shots of our balloon release. The kids wanted to let the balloons go out in the garden:
When asked if she wanted to say anything, Kylee said she wanted to tell Caden "Hi" and that she "hopes he's doing good in heaven." She wrote her name on the pink balloon.
Connor wrote "Hi, Caden!" on his balloons. When he released his, he yelled "I miss you, Caden!"
Watching the balloons soar...the kids were both very concerned about whether or not the balloons would actually make it up to heaven. We assured them that even if the balloons themselves didn't make it, Caden could see what we were doing.
We love you, baby boy. You dwell in our hearts forever.
I've been praying for you all as I knew the day was approaching. We have Jael's "heavenly birthday" every year, so it was sweet to hear you talk about Caden's. The kids chose such a sweet way to remember their brother!
ReplyDeleteThe kids are so sweet. I have been thinking of you a lot as this "heavenly day" approached. I can not imagine the emotions that you are feeling. Just remember Caden is smiling down on you and Hadley is eager to meet you. God's plan is difficult to understand but you have always trusted in him and I admire that quality about you. I hope you are enjoying your last month of not having a baby in the house as I am sure you are so excited for Hadley to be here with you. Talk to you soon.
ReplyDeleteWe prayed for you and your family Monday at the LWC...we thought of Caden, and we are so grateful that June 30th is Caden's Heaven Day at the clinic too. :)
ReplyDeleteThat was a beautiful post, friends. We love you and wish you constant comfort.
ReplyDeleteI have been thinking about your family alot over the past few weeks knowing that this would be a bittersweet time for you. I think the baloon release was a beautiful way to say hello to Caden. Know that you all are loved!
ReplyDeleteCyndi
That was so sweet. You have wonderful kids... That blog was so touching and moving. Caden is so loved not only by His Heavenly father, but from his earthly family as well! The balloons were a great idea.
ReplyDeleteTara