In honor of Ruthie's first birthday we planned a party. So many family members sent short letters that were put on 2 dozen balloons and were released at Philippe Park in Safety Harbor. Here is a photo experience of our new December 9th family tradition.
This is Justus' balloon, when I asked him what he wanted on it, he said, "A Big J so she knows it is from me" and then he drew a "self portrait" which I had to copy onto the balloon for him, so Ruthie knows what he looks like. He also had a message for her, written on the 2nd picture.
To Ruthie, I love you and miss you. I want to meet you and play with you! Love J.
Even Hannah had a balloon. Brooke's balloon said, "for the Bible tells me so." It was her only answer when I asked her over and over what she would want to tell Ruthie. I love how at only age 2 Brooke knows that the source of her truth is what the Bible tells her. That same truth has kept this family going through trials. Well put Brooke...well put.
Chick-fil-a breakfast at the park before we began.
After breakfast we each had some prayer time, thanking Jesus for Ruthie and asking Him to pass on the precious messages that were written on the balloons. This picture is Justus praying.
Dad getting some love and support from his earthly children.
Justus set balloons off first.
Brooke was next. Each child told Ruthie how much they loved her and let their balloon and a couple others off into the heavens.
Mom's turn...let me tell you, the kids made it look easy...not so easy. But healing does not always require the easy thing.
With my precious kiddos
Dad's turn. I think Dad's turn made me cry more than my turn. The love of a father for his daughter, no matter how short the time they spent together continues to blow my mind. His love for Ruthie so represents the love God the Father has for us. Thanks for being a picture of that Brian. Your emotion and love for Ruthie might be painful, but it is a testimony to the love God has for His creations.
Brooke managed to snag an extra balloon from Dad.
Brian writing out his balloon to Ruthie. I don't know what it said, but his balloon moved the fastest through the sky...even Justus noticed.
Brian watching his balloon head off into the heavens.
Emotions ran high (and still do) during the balloons, but no matter how painful this was, Ruthie has given so many (including us) reasons to rejoice. It was time to celebrate...we sang Happy Birthday to Ruthie and ate cupcakes.
Yellow icing (for remembrance) and purple cupcakes because Ruthie is with royalty.
Time for some play time!
A birthday present to Ruthie from Daddy with pictures of her with us, and scriptures that remind us of her. Well done Daddy.Happy Birthday Ruthie. Your short earthly life and your eternal life have meant so much to so many. One day Jesus will present you with all the people you have changed, and you will be overwhelmed, and Mommy and Daddy will stand there with great pride over all of your accomplishments. "We give thanks on every remembrance of you" Philippians 1:3
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