Tuesday, April 8, 2008

farewell, dear Hannah...

Today we gathered as one big family to say a final farewell to our precious little Hannah. We had the service at our home...all of Hannah's cousin's, uncles and aunts were there. It was just a wonderful way to acknowledge that Hannah was God's gift to us...tiny as she was, she had a huge impact on each one of us. Lisa's sister had put together a beautiful slide show of Hannah's short life on dvd...it will be such a treasure for all of us!
A photographer from a non-profit organization called "Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep" arrived at the hospital shortly after Hannah's birth, and took the most amazing photos...how special to have those memories of her short time here. Lisa's cousin (who is a pastor in Saskatoon) flew out to perform the service...it was so intimate and touching.

Earlier in the day we had sprinkles and gray skies...but as we made our way to the cemetery, the sun came out. Two of Hannah's uncles carried her little casket to her special spot...and we all gathered around to say our final good-byes.

We placed flowers on her casket...and shed a few tears...and thanked God that He had her in His everlasting arms.

Cousins Ryder and Aliya couldn't resist a little tiptoeing through the tombstones. The cemetery is in a most beautiful spot on a hillside...with a view of the valley below.

We all came back to the house for the evening...food...talk...and enjoy each other's company. Hold them near, while they're here...and don't wait for tomorrow, to look back and wish for today!

Friends have been so kind...many beautiful flowers arrived for Kris and Lisa...and many donations to B.C. Women's Hospital, where Kris and Lisa received the best medical attention.
We gathered today to remember our sweet Hannah...and we will never forget her!


9 comments:

  1. oh, this post made me cry, just like the rest of them. How sad to see such a small casket. Sounds like it was a really nice service, and how great to have today's technology to help remember Hannah with.
    Love Kathryn

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  2. Oh Judy, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your very special time with Hannah's farewell.
    What a gift to have such a loving family that stands close to one another during this terribly hard time.

    Your post really was a moment of silence for me. . . remembering little Hannah too.

    The pictures were just beautiful.

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  3. Judy, thank you for sharing with us. It is great that you have such a close family to be together and comfort each other through sad times and laugh through the good times. Your lovely photos make it real for your readers. Dairymary

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  4. It's been an honor to observe from afar as your family has gone about this sacred task. I am totally in awe of you all and thank you for sharing this time in your lives. Although there will be tears, yet you take great comfort in knowing exactly where Hannah is today. God's richest blessings upon you all.

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  5. What a beautiful post. We can just feel your heart of sadness, but at the same time, joy that you could all be together and enjoy those moments and talk about the short life that Hannah lived.
    May you be blessed for the support that you have shown to your family..

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  6. Thank you Judy for sharing..my heart is so sad for you all. How wonderful that your family could all be together at this time.
    For now you have your memories of Hannah and one day you will be reunited!

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  7. Judy...What a beautiful testimony you are to everyone that has walked with you during this sad time of losing little Hannah. When I read your little message today, it just broke my heart. As a mother and grandmother I can feel your pain. I also know you have that peace of knowing little Hannah is with the Lord. You have such a beautiful loving family Judy...I'll be praying for you all...Dee Dee

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  8. Judy, such a heart felt post. May the Lord continue to bring comfort to you and yours during this time of loss.

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  9. You are in my prayers Judy...our family went through a very similar time 2 years ago and our great Niece is now expecting again (very soon) we are all praying for Jodie and Nick now, too. How peaceful the photo's are...
    prayers and hugs
    Sandi

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