June 7, 2016

For the Kids

Each year, on June 1st, we have done something different.
We seem to be falling into a consistent pattern when it comes to
Austin's birthday.  We like to remember his home-going day as well.

But, not in the same manner.

It's emerged as being a day to mark for its spiritual significance.
It was, in fact, Austin's best day.  He was called Home to Heaven.
What could be better than that?  It's exactly what we desire for all our children.

Austin just went ahead of our schedule.


June 1st doesn't always involve gifts for our other three.
However, the first year we gave our children each a
We subsequently read it together as a family.

Last year, if I remember correctly, we listened to the sermon our
pastor preached the very next morning after Austin's entrance into heaven.
We may have listened to Austin's recorded testimony as well.
We most certainly would have reflected on where our son is and what he is doing.


This year, we gave each of the kids a copy of "Grieving, Hope and Solace". 
Three personalised photo books had been created which were given as well.  
 They were thrilled with them.  Which, of course, thrilled my heart.


Each book contains photos of their growing up years with their big brother.
The journalling which accompanies the photos was created specifically for each one.
Unique memories are mentioned and made note of in order to stir
up more memories, or to draw attention to those perhaps forgotten.


While I was putting the books together, there were tears as well as smiles.
It was most definitely an emotional journey.  But, one well worth the effort.

 
    We look back, and we are thankful.
The Lord has blessed us abundantly, and we praise Him.
His ways are always best, even when we don't understand.
Even when it is excruciatingly difficult.
 
We rest our hearts in His Sovereign plan.   
And, we look to Him.

It won't be long, and we will be together again.
Praising the Lord forever throughout all eternity.
 May the Lord give us grace to follow wherever He leads.
We know that He will be faithful until the day He calls us Home.  

With Love,
  Camille   

15 comments:

Melissa said...

What a beautiful, bittersweet gift. I know your children will treasure them, and the love you put into each one.

Chelle said...

Awww. That is a lovely thing to have. It is nice to remember. It is also good to know you will be with him again someday.

Nikki said...

What a precious gift.

Jill said...

This totally made me cry... what a beautiful tribute to Austin! Big hugs to you....

Blessings,
Jill

Cameron said...

What a beautiful idea Camille. I'm sure it'll be really treasured by them {{big hugs}} love Julia x

Camille said...

Melissa ~ Thank you, sweet friend. They seem to be happy that I made them...what a blessing. :)

Chelle ~ Oh, yes!! SO wonderful to know that this is not the end! How blessed we are to belong to the Lord. Thank you for your thoughtful words. :)

Nikki ~ It was a blessing to be able to do it...and with a coupon, too! :)

Jill ~ Awww...thank you, my friend. I shed some tears while I was putting them together. Bittersweet, for sure. Hugs! :)

Julia ~ Thank you, sweet friend. Big hugs back! :)

With Love,
Camille

Sandy said...

Tears flow as I read your blog, Camille.
What beautiful gifts to the children!
Love to all.
Sandy

Justine said...

This is such a beautiful gift for your children! Memories are so important and for young children they can become foggy I am so glad that you wrote some of them down for them!

Camille said...

Sandy ~ Thank you, my friend. We do miss our Austin...but, we are so thankful that we know where he is and that one day, we will be there, too. Hugs! :)

Justine ~ How lovely it is to hear from you! Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement. Hugs to you! :)

With Love,
Camille

Katy said...

I just love the photobooks!!! What a wonderful, love-filled idea! Definitely something for each of the children to treasure!

Camille said...

Katy ~ Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I am so thankful that it finally got done! I imagine that in years to come, they will become even more special to them. Hugs to you! Camille

Cinnamon said...

♥♥♥♥♥ LOVE THIS ♥♥♥♥♥ A treasure Camille!

~Cinnamon

Camille said...

Cinnamon ~ Thank you, sweet friend. Hugs across the miles. :) With Love, Camille

Lisa said...

Each time I read a post about Austin, it brings me to tears. And this one was no different. What a sweet gift you made for all the memories they have to cherish with him. You are a beautiful mama, and I am so humbled by your example of love and strong faith in the Lord. What a gift you are to my life! xoxo

Camille said...

Lisa ~ You know what? You bless me more than you may know! The Lord is so very good to us, isn't He? Much love to you! Hugs, Camille