Our Greatest Christmas Gift....

Friday, December 4th--I made my way to the Festival of Trees again. This time, to be able to meet with the families of the children we dedicated the tree to. I've mentioned it before but will do so again. We dedicated our tree display to Sadie Huish (age 6) and Lucas Nelson (age 8 months), both precious angels who passed away this summer from different forms of brain cancer. Both families live within a few blocks of each other and from me, in Eagle Mountain. After reading their blogs (http://sadiehuish.blogspot.com/ and http://nelsonsforever.blogspot.com/ ) I knew we had to dedicate our tree to their children. I knew the Nelsons already but didn't know the Huish's other than their daughter, Livi, was on the same t-ball team with Brady and I'd seen Tiffany at church meetings. I was so grateful when Dustin & Crystal agreed that we should dedicate it to them. Stories of Sadie and Lucas inspired many of the ideas we had, one of the reasons the design was child-like. Copies of Sadie's beautiful artwork were placed on a small art easel on the top of the tree and a large art easel to the side of the tree.

I gave each of Lucas and Sadie's siblings a Curious George fleece blanket and a stuffed Curious George. They seemed to love them a lot. We made our way through the crowds and went straight to the tree. It was very crowded but I told everyone to take their time looking at the display. We spent about 15 minutes there and took pictures. My friend, Sharee, just happened to show up while we were there so I got to introduce her and let them know she helped design the tree decor. My one wish was that I wouldn't be a cry-baby the whole time. I prayed it would be a happy experience and it was just that. There were only few tears but mostly smiles and lots of hugs.

I am still touched and honored that both families allowed us to invite ourselves into their lives and loss. Lucas had only been gone a few weeks when I asked his mom, Shannon. I cried many tears, and still do, thinking about each of them and how they cope and grieve on a daily basis. They are my heros and examples of courage and faith--faith to move forward and do what it takes to make sure they are reunited with their little angels someday. Sadie and Lucas are also my heros, what they endured as they fought cancer, I wouldn't wish on anyone, but they still found moments to smile and the sparkle in their eyes is priceless. I will remember them the rest of my life, I am sure of it.

This experience has truly been our greatest Christmas gift. I couldn't ask for anything more. I will hold the memory of this in my heart always. Thank you so much to the Huish (Zach, Tiffany, Livi & Sam) and Nelson (Aaron, Shannon, Kaden & Jonas) families--you are my friends and true examples of strength.