Lots of memories

Happy 11/12/13!!!

We're trying to get over our most recent round of colds.  

Last week and this week hold lots of memories.  It struck me that Josiah only lived through one August, September, and October and he was never outside for any of those months (of course, his lack of fresh air was the least of his problems.)  One year ago last week was when Josiah's cardiologist met with me to tell me that Josiah was no longer eligible for the surgeries he would need and most likely wasn't eligible for a transplant.  

One year ago today (on the Tuesday) Graham and I met with a medical team who confirmed the dismal prognosis and all agreed we should take Josiah home on palliative care.  I've listened to the songs that meant a lot to us last year and remembered the conversations and fears.  The memories don't bring tears. 

Graham saw this link to an article about how the church can help those who are grieving.  We both appreciated reading it and we're also thankful for the wonderful support we've received from our church family.

Twice last week I heard how serious Isaac is.  This is how he is in groups out in public (not how he acts at home).  He needs to take everything in and process it.  When all the other children were hopping like bunnies, Isaac just watched with a straight face.  Even at the pool he's not quite ready to let go of Daddy's hands to jump into his arms.  I'm so proud of him and all the things he can do but I find it interesting (and perhaps a little sad) that at his age I already want him to jump like a bunny because that's what everyone else is doing.  I'm not quite sure if it's for his sake or my sake.  A friend is reading a book that discussed how we often feel that we need to make apologies for introverts rather than fully valuing their unique characteristics.   

Isaac helped me collect branches to make Ann Voskamp's Thanksgiving Tree.  Each day we take a leaf off the tree and read the verse and then write on the back what we're thankful to God for.  We now have a chart on Isaac's wall for his bedtime routine.  I think it's helped him to focus and he likes to check off what he's done (with help) and tell us what's next.  Mommy's night time singing has now officially been replaced by Daddy's stories.  The librarian asked at story time for favourite stories (referring to actual books) and Isaac told me that his favourite stories were Chippy and Skippy. 

Isaac and I were playing outside on a cold day last week (well, he was playing more than I was).  I thought it would be fun to share some hot chocolate when we came inside.  Isaac was a fan.

At the dinner table the other day Isaac was just talking about various things when he told us, “Bob’s middle name is not 'The'.” (referring to Bob the Builder).   

We had a lovely visit with friends from out of town on Sunday.  

It’s memory night at our group session tomorrow evening.  Each couple will share photos and stories of their child who has passed away. We’re looking forward to showing pictures of Josiah.  

I have a list of items in my head that I would like to try to make.  I’ve now made cake pops.  It was all going well until it was time to dip them in chocolate and decorate them.  That was not my forte.  I had decided that I probably wouldn’t make them again but I think it would be easier the second time so I might try again with Christmas colours.  I enjoyed eating them.  

Thank you for your prayers!

Blessings,

Elizabeth

John 3:16

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.