First Memory Box

Our first complete memory box has been assembled and is on its way across the country. I received an email from a friend on Friday afternoon about a couple who delivered their baby boy early Friday morning. He was born still at 18 weeks gestation. Since their baby boy has already been delivered, I know that the memory box won't make it in time for hospital use. However, I pray that it will still bring some comfort to them as the prepare to make burial arrangements.

I went to bed last night with a heavy heart. Each time I hear of another loss, I can't help it... it takes me back to July 21, 2011, the day I delivered Nathan. It breaks my heart to think of another family having to go through that. I got up this morning and drove across town (since our post office isn't open on Saturdays) and dropped it off. It is a gray, rainy-looking morning here in North Carolina... which seemed to fit my mood and mindset. On the way, I spent most of the drive praying for the family. Right before I got off the highway, I turned on the radio (which I keep on K-Love) and the Casting Crowns song, "Praise You in This Storm" came on. It is a song that has helped me on my journey... so I kinda felt like it was a small message from God and Nathan saying, "We're here with you and we understand what you're feeling today." That made me smile... something that, 9 months and 1 week ago, I didn't think would ever be possible again. I will never stop missing him but I can feel a difference in my grief. I know that God is healing my heart and I'm thankful for that.




I wanted to include this story and picture of the memory box, so that you can see what exactly you are supporting. I want you to see how you are helping and making a difference... one family and one precious baby at a time. Thank you, thank you, thank you... to EVERY single person who has supported us either through prayer, making and donating items or with a monetary donation.

(A bereavement pouch, hat and blanket are included in this box so that

the parents may choose to have an item to bury or cremate their baby in,

as well as, be able to keep an item that their baby was held and loved in.)

(One teddy bear for the parents to keep and one

teddy bear to be buried or cremated with baby.)

Still Here

I realize it's been awhile since I posted so I wanted to post an update to let you know that I'm still here. Originally, when we started YAMC... the goal was to have the first memory box donations ready for delivery on Nathan's due date. Since Nathan is my first loss, I had NO clue how difficult the day would be.

I'm taking a step back so that I can collect myself and get to a place where I'm okay with doing this project. In order to allow this project to reach its full potential and goal of helping other families... I must first take care of myself. I'm still collecting donations and items (the handmade cards actually came in the mail last week)... I'm just postponing the first donation until after the new year.

I want to thank everyone for all of the support and love that has been given to us over the last five months. It's bittersweet to think that Nathan should be in my arms right now. However, when I see the future for YAMC... I can't imagine a better way for his life has such meaning and purpose. Please continue to keep us in prayer as we navigate into a new year without our precious boy. I wish nothing but love, peace and health for your family in 2012.

New Look

Notice anything different? Many thanks to Fran at Small Bird Studios for the beautiful new blog design!! If you are looking for a new blog or WordPress design... check her out. She is a wonderful designer. She was extremely patient and understanding throughout our entire design process. She was always quick to get back with me when I had a change or concern. She is in the process of designing our logo now and I can't wait to see the end result. ★★★★★

Thank You

I'm overwhelmed by the love, prayers and support of Nathan's project since making the blog public last night. Thank you so much to everyone!! It warms my heart to think of the families that will be helped and comforted... all because of Nathan.