Birthdays

I can't let too much time pass without writing a post in honor of our sweet angels' birthday.  Yesterday was Savannah and Charlie's first birthday, and of course also the anniversary of the day they went to their final destination.  When I think about all of the people who have left before me, I am honored that both Savannah and Charlie are in such good company.  I think of both of my grandfathers, talking to the twins about farming, and agreeing with my Dad's wishes for more rain. (It's coming, Dad:)).  I imagine my Grandma K and my godmother-aunt Margaret smooching their little fingers and toes, playing house together before my granny has to go watch her "program."  I know Aaron's grandpa is teaching them about mechanics, airplanes, and how to fix things.  We have so many friends and family who left before us, who I know are having the best time with our children.  None more so than one of the greatest ladies I ever had the pleasure of knowing, Aaron's mother, Sue.  She exhibited kindness and compassion with every ounce of her being,  She had more patience than most, and could find the time to go the extra mile for everybody.  I know she is loving and taking the best care imaginable of Charlie and Savannah.

Yesterday wasn't all tears.  Savannah and Charlie were loved and treasured for every second of their existence, by many, many people.  We wanted to honor and celebrate as much as we mourned.  We had a busy, day, but just after dark, we had planned to go to the cemetery, and let go two floating lanterns.  Apparently, our kiddos do have a fantastic sense of humor.  At their site, we have two solar lights, one butterfly, and one dragonfly.  They are so beautiful, as is their stone.  It's been a very peaceful, tranquil place for us to visit.  The lights change colors, and they are so bright that we could see the lanterns perfectly to prepare them.  We lit them, let them fill up with heat, and when it was time to let them go, the one I started got stuck in a tree, and Aaron's floated gracefully into the night sky.  So we laughed a little, and watched until all of the embers in mine went out.  After a  good chat and a good cry, we left for home.  Aaron thought we should take the route in the direction that his lantern floated.  On the drive, we saw some fireworks.  When we got close to the farm letting them off, we pulled over, just as they were lighting off the grand finale,  A true gala for our twins.

In another interesting twist of fate, today is Lady L's birthday, which we also celebrated last night.  She turns 30 today, and we had a great time at her party at her folks' house.  In fact, it was very reminiscent of her birthday parties I remember attending when we were young kids.  Her children and their friends were having a great time, rounding up the night by searching for zombies with flashlights at dusk.  Happy birthday, Lady L.  We love you!

As our excitement for our daughter's arrival continues, we still mourn the loss of what might have been, but wasn't. Although I would change the course of fate if I could, there have been many, many blessings that we are so thankful for as a result of our loss. Many of our friendships have been strengthened, and some mere acquaintances have now become family. Aaron and I have witnessed true acts of friendship, and watched in admiration as people who we wouldn't have expected surround us with love and so much support. So many of you have reached out and shown us your compassion, your sorrow, and grace. Thank you.

Lady L and I at her birthday party

Lady L and her husband J, enjoying the night

The lantern Aaron let go, far away in the night sky