Easter

I realized that I never posted anything about our Easter this year. Easter is my favorite holiday, especially because of the hope found in celebrating our risen Savior! We have a few little family traditions that we like to do to remember the true meaning of Easter like our Cross cookies, resurrection rolls, church, and resurrection eggs. I love talking with my children about the reality of the relationship we can have with Christ, because HE is ALIVE! When you think about it, the importance of the resurrection and what that means for us who believe in and follow Jesus, is really the single most important event in the history of the world! What a joyous reason to celebrate! Of course, we love to die, hide, and hunt eggs and all the usual traditions as well. And, my boys favorite thing to do is take family pictures in the yard (not really)!

An Angel Who Can Now Fly

Me and Hay Hay having a little "chat"

My niece, Hailey, went to be with Jesus on April 28, 2012, after 17 amazing years on this earth. She was born with extensive brain damage (microcephaly), Cerebral Palsy, and other complications and her birth parents chose to walk away and leave her at the hospital. My wonderful sister and brother-in-law self-lessly welcomed her with loving arms and ended up adopting her, knowing the difficult road ahead for her. 

There have been many times that I have gotten a call from my sister that this could be the end for Hailey. You see, she was not expected to live nearly as long as she did...by the doctor's standards, that is. She was in and out of the hospital on too many occasions to count. However, on this particular day that I got the call, I knew this was the end. Hospice had been called and Hailey's body was failing her for good this time. She would be taken off the ventilator soon. I knew I needed to go and say my final goodbyes and be there with my sister and family. I am so grateful that I got to spend her last days with her and my family. It's been a month since she died, but it seems like yesterday. Although she never spoke a word, her smile spoke more than any words can say. There is such peace in knowing she is with her Maker, now in a perfect body, that no longer suffers. Unfortunately, there is still the deep ache in our hearts, as we miss her being with us. Thank you Jesus, for the HOPE found in you, and the assurance of knowing that we will be with sweet Hailey in your perfect timing!

Scott and Heather with their sweet daughter, Hailey

My sisters, Lauren and Heather, with Hailey

I miss you Hailey Anita Lawson. Your life has impacted me and so many others in profound ways!