Remembering Sarah

Caroline enjoys a moment on her sister's bench.

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Good friends from Connecticut visit Sarah's graveside. Thank you Neil and Tamara for decorating her special spot with such beautiful fall flowers and pumpkins.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

I am grateful for photographs that remind me of special moments in my daughter's life.

Caroline and Cousin Brigham

The littlest of cousins became better acquainted at a family photo session this past Summer.

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Thank you Amy Jo for capturing this sweet little pair.

A happy, toothless smile from Maren!

"Dancing Like a Ballerina"

Today marks nine months since Sarah's passing. I am reminded of her example of strength, compassion and courage. Sarah accepted her circumstances without complaint . As the tumor continued to spread, she lost the use of the right side of her body. Suddenly everyday tasks became very tiring and difficult. Most importantly to Sarah, however, she had to figure out a new way to dance. Dancing to music was one of her favorite activities. She often said, "I dance like a ballerina." Using her stiff right leg as a pivot point and with her limp right hand held close to her body, she discovered that she could still twirl around with her left hand in the air. One year ago today, Brian captured her dancing on camera to one of her favorite lullabies.

Caroline's First Birthday

Today our family celebrated Caroline's first birthday. I remember one year ago today holding my precious daughter for the first time. I felt such joy and comfort as Sarah snuggled up close to me, simply adoring her new baby sister. Sarah and I examined Caroline's tiny toes and fingers and touched her soft cheeks and head. I will never forget this special moment and the feelings I had knowing that God had blessed me with this new baby to help fill the void that would come with Sarah's passing. Caroline's affectionate personality and sweetness have brought laughter, delight, happiness and so much comfort to our family. Her funny faces, thumb-sucking, cute waves goodbye, smiles, giggles, and cheerfulness have helped me look forward to every day.

We celebrated Caroline's birthday at the beach. Caroline quickly adjusted to having sand between her fingers and toes, enjoyed riding the waves with Daddy...

...and taking a nap on Mama while sucking her favorite thumb.

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A day earlier, Caroline enjoyed opening her gifts with the help of her brother and sister.

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She was curious about the candle on her cupcake. Maren helped her blow out the candle and we all sang "Happy Birthday!"

The birthday girl enjoyed the sweet taste of frosting and cake. No bib, no rules!

Happy Birthday, Caroline!

A Labor of Love

A most precious book arrived on our doorstep this afternoon. My dear mother has labored for hours creating this beautiful memory album. The pages are filled with photographs and memories of our sweet Sarah's life. This gift is a labor of love; I know she shed many tears as she created each page with tender feelings of love for her granddaughter. Our family will always treasure this priceless record.

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