One thing we talked a lot about at the retreat we went to was communication and expectations. Some families there who have already been through the first birthday without their child shared some of their experiences. We learned that many of you who have never stood in our place may not really be sure what to do with Ayden's birthday coming up. I want to list just a few ideas to maybe help relieve any questions you may be having.
#1 If you bring it up, it won't make the day any harder. It is not as though every hour of that day we won't already be thinking of and remembering the sweet little boy who won't be there for the big 1st birthday party. Letting us know you're thinking of HIM (not just us) will make the day a little more bearable.
Ideas can be as simple as sending a text, sending an email, maybe even an ecard if you find one you like, sharing a thought or memory of Ayden, releasing balloons with us for his birthday, send a birthday card if you have our address, or simply leave a comment on the blog.
Whatever you feel like doing, do it. We promise you cannot possibly do anything to harm us if you have good intentions in what you are doing. We will appreciate every kind word, thought, prayer, balloon, card, or whatever else you may feel is appropriate. The worst that could happen is for fear to cause those who are closest to us to do nothing at all. He was born, he was with us, and is still a HUGE part of our lives, and he will never be erased or forgotten in our family. It will be hard but we welcome you to CELEBRATE with us...after all...what a gift we received just one year ago!
Jeremy
Linds & Jeremy,
ReplyDeleteAyden shares his birthday with my sister, Lauren.
I will be thinking of both him & you two on that day.
*hugs*
Emily
Thanks for this post. We will never forget Ayden. I like the balloon idea, been thinking about it since Lindsay's last post. Will be praying extra for you guys as his bday approaches and knowing God will use Ayden's birthday to further spread His word.
ReplyDeleteLindsay & Jeremy,
ReplyDeleteHave been following your blog since Brooke wrote about it on hers (Cuddlebugs). I can not imagine what you two are going through, I have two boys myself. Since reading your story, you three have become regulars in my prayers. We will be releasing balloons for Ayden on his birthday. I plan on taking pictures of the boys letting go of their balloons, I can email them to you if you would like. I will contiune praying for you 4 now.
First time commenting, but always praying for your precious family. My friend's 15 month died from SUDS coming on 14 years in Sept. We never forget. Their family always buys the same age toy on his birthday and donates to the Child Crisis Center. His younger siblings were not born, but he has been such a presence in their lives. Blessings, Susan
ReplyDeleteI know that will be a hard day, wish I could be there with you guys.
ReplyDeleteWe will do something special for sweet little Ayden on his day. Whatever it will be, I'll be sure to send pictures :)
I know you will miss him tons that day, but remember, God will make sure he has the best B'day ever.
Ayden will always have a special place in my heart. Always!
I love you and I'm thinking about y'all - Kelley