Thursday, January 27, 2011

Baby Steps

Something big happened over the holidays that I've been meaning to tell you. Baby Steps were taken...quite literally led by the grand baby herself. On Christmas Eve, Olivia came to stay the night with us. While I was out finishing last minute details, Papa Dean had the task of setting up the crib in a spare bedroom. Upon my return, he announced that he had set it up in Jocie's room.

No discussion...just did it...stating that's where it belongs.

I believe the word would be stunned! No one has slept in my angel Jocie's room since she stumbled out of bed and dressed in her ski clothes that dreadful March morning...everything being just as she left it. Everything!

Papa Dean and his wisdom...knowing it is time to push forward with this next step. Ever so gently we chip away at scars that have settled on fragile parents. Taking turns, we nudge each other closer to joy and healing.

Later on that evening, we all swaddled that beautiful babe and put her to sleep in Aunt Jocie's room. The tears flowed easily as I walked away. Baby steps for certain, but monumental to say the least. And it was as it should be. I have been formulating plans for Aunt Jocie's room, and now I believe Olivia will be able to help me carry them through...more baby steps! We'll keep you posted.

7 comments:

  1. ohhhhhh-- my words will sound trite. But what a tender moment and a perfect way to move forward.

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  2. I definitely believe heavenly father sent this little angel to your family. Tracy James

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  3. I have only recently found you, but am enjoying getting to know your beautiful family. Thank you for sharing such tender moments with perfect strangers. I hope it helps in your healing, but I KNOW it helps us remember what is truly important in our lives.

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  4. Baby Olivia is a "miracle". This will become more evident as each day passes. She looks so peaceful and beautiful in Aunt Jocie's room. Many happy days and nights will be spent in there.

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  5. That sweet baby Olivia is definitely a blessing in your life. Thank heaven for baby steps and a great first step for you & Dean.

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  6. I found your blog through Michelle (who is my husband's sister-in-law's sister). Anyway, my dad (and me too) are related to Owen (your father-in-law?). So I searched for him on here and I see that we must be related. Lila was my dad's aunt or great aunt (and now I have a Lyla so I'm excited to have a picture of her sort of namesake). I remember visiting in the summers at the Van Dyke's house across the street any being thrown off when Collette would come over because I never knew another Collette. My parents live in that house now. Anyway, I am just saying hello, relative. :) Your pictures are beautiful and I hope that you continue to heal from the pains of losing your daughter.

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  7. Dean is a wise man. You are a brave woman. We love you both.

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