Sweet Gifts

One of the many lessons I've learned while walking this road is this: The thoughtfulness and generosity of others can heal a hurting heart.

We have been continually amazed at the outpouring of gifts to our family. And, not generic gifts. Extremely thoughtful ones, with special significance to us.

I've realized I'm not very good at doing that myself...at being thoughtful enough to send "the perfect gift", especially to a family in sorrow. But, I've learned how important that really is. So many of you have done that for us, and it has been so healing for us.

I thought that a tribute to our latest gifts would be a good way to honor this day, January 30th... FOUR months since we met our little Chase.

• One of my most cherished new pieces of jewelry (please excuse the very nonprofessional photos):

And, just this last week, my girls got one too!

These were made by a sweet new friend, Jennifer, who has a ministry called Pray'd 4 You. She and her volunteers make these necklaces by hand, and pray for the person receiving it as they work. They send the pieces with an attached scripture card of encouragement.

I LOVE this idea. I LOVE how cute they are, and that each time I wear it, I remember I was--and still am--being prayed for. And, Jennifer is one of those people who I've never met, but who has been alert to the Lord's voice, and has ministered to our family again and again during this time.

• These are three of my very favorite daily devotional books, that offer new wisdom and insight to me every single time I open them:

If you are ever searching for the "right thing" for a grieving friend, these books would be great. They have blessed me in countless ways.

• One of the most creative gifts I've ever seen is this charm:

If you don't recognize the artwork, this is the poster that Kendyll painted for Chase's balloon celebration. My roomie Angie had it made into a charm. Oh my goodness, this is so absolutely precious to me.

• My mom & sister got me this "angel of remembrance" for Christmas:

On it, it says "Perhaps there are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy."

I love having reminders like these in every room. :)

• Another very special gift (and a great idea if you ever need one!) has been our oak tree from Seeds of Life, given in memory of Chase. This one began as an ACORN!

That's right. We have been watching this tiny acorn grow into this tiny tree. Eventually, this will be planted outside, as soon as it is strong enough to endure the weather. This was a sweet way to memorialize our baby boy. And, I love that it will last forever and ever.

There have been so many other thoughtful things given and done for us, and we are amazed that STILL people think of us, remembering that we are still walking this road, and blessing us on the journey. We've received everything from Christmas ornaments to gift cards for dinner, donations to His Chase and more sponsored children in Chase's honor. The prayers, cards, and emails keep coming too....we are just so thankful. And, as I've said before, "thank you" doesn't seem like enough.

You have blessed us and been the Lord's comforters to us. And, we are still feeling those blessings of comfort four months later. Thank you.

"Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ." Ephesians 5:1-2