Hadlee's 1st Birthday

 On May 5th we went down to Ogden to celebrate the 1st birthday of our beautiful niece Hadlee (Her actual birthday was on May 2nd).  It was such a wonderful and special day.  The families all brought lots of stuff to decorate her grave, which is in such a beautiful spot.  We started off by "heart attacking" her grave.  Each of us wrote a special note to her, and I felt that was really an amazing thing to be able to do.  You can tell this little one sure is loved! :)

 After everyone finishing writing their cards, Dustin and Heather said a few words.  They are both such amazing examples to me of strength and epitomize the kind of parents that I hope Brig and I can be one day.  I of course bawled through this part.  But it is amazing to see that while this last year brought so much pain with it, it also brought so much happiness.  We've all learned a lot, and it is such a beautiful thing to remember that no matter what this life brings, the Lord is always there right by our side; and he always will be.

After that, we had a balloon release in memory of Hadlee.  Purple is her color, and while I didn't used to love that color (Heather ;) ), I do now because it always reminds me of her :)

 Elliet suggested that as we release the balloons we all yell "HADLEE!"  So that is what we did!  She is so sweet :)  Love all these kids.

 While we went down to celebrate Hadlee's day of birth, we also went down to celebrate what Heather and Dustin called her Angel Birthday.  This is the day that she returned to live with our Heavenly Father.  While that may seem sad to most, and it is sad for us to think about sometimes, it is wonderful to know that she is healthy and happy there and in the care of relatives, friends, and a Father who loves her so much.  It was so special to be with everyone to remember such a beautiful life.  I think about Hadlee often, and how blessed I am that I had the privilege of meeting her.  For anyone who is unfamiliar with her story, you can read my post here.  She has touched my life so much and I will always look forward to the day that I can see her again.

 Love this little family :)

Love and miss you baby girl!!!