I did a pretty good job keeping the tears in check this weekend. It wasn't until my father-in-law's speech at the wedding, that I couldn't help it anymore. He talked about how the groom, Travis, had been through a lot with our family already. A sudden passing of a grandparent and the tragic loss of Ellie. Travis never flinched. He was there for his bride, Chrissy, the whole way. I remember looking at him that night at the hospital, thinking how much he must love Chrissy. To be in such a horrible place, going through such a terrible thing. I remember telling him he didn't have to come, and he said, "Yes I did."
This past year should have been an amazing year full of excitement for the two of them. They got jipped. Instead of a year full of excitement, the past year was a year of tears and grief. It wasn't fair. But they never complained and did a wonderful job of including our girl in their big day. I could never express how thankful I am for this. For months, I have been thinking how Ellie will be missing from all the family pictures, how I didn't get to pick out a dress and shoes for her to wear, how we didn't get to see her stare at her pretty aunt all dressed up like a princess, how I would have to sit in a pew without her. But yesterday turned out to be a little easier than I imagined. Ellie was definitely there with us.
Ellie was designated as the honorary flower girl, and I'm sure she was all dressed up in Heaven yesterday with flowers in hand. The happy couple had a vase of flowers up front, just in her memory and we attached her picture to Chrissy's boutique. Her picture was in the slide show. People said her name. Even though it was hard and there were tears, it was a beautiful day. Ellie would have loved being a part of it all. She loved people, attention, dresses and hair- she would have been in her element. Like most things now, it was bittersweet.
We didn't get home until around lunchtime this morning. My mom was at home with Max and after we dropped her off, we went to the cemetery to bring Ellie her flowers from the wedding. The cemetery was full of people. I'm sure most people were there to visit their mothers, not their daughters. Today, was far from what I imagined my Mother's Day to be. We mostly stayed at home and rested. I am grateful we didn't have any gatherings to go to and that I could pretty much forget what today represents. Even though Max is here, Ellie isn't. And Mother's Day doesn't mean much to me without her.
I'm just glad this weekend is almost over...
We love you Travis and Chrissy!
I don't think there has ever been a more beautiful bride!
Our little man did so great as the ring bearer! He wore his tux and walked down the aisle like a pro! He was so adorable!
Chrissy's flowers with Ellie's picture on them.
Max with his Aunt Chrissy!
After the ceremony Max changed into his casual wear- a tuxedo tshirt!
Mother's Day
Out at the cemetery visiting our Ellie.
A truly messed up way to spend Mother's Day.
Ellie's flowers from the wedding at her spot.
The tulips I planted last fall are starting to come up...
11 comments:
I can't even begin imagine how difficult this weekend must have been for you. So nice that Ellie was included so well in the days events- and you're right, a gorgeous bride indeed.
Wishing you a peaceful (rest of) Mother's Day.
That is so sweet how they included her in their wedding. Now I have tears streaming down my face. I am praying for you!!!
The picture of ellie on the flowers was georgeous so sweet she was all there with you. Max looked handsome to you must be very proud of him. x
i'm so glad Ellie was celebrated and remembered during this daunting weekend you got through! you look beautiful in the photos above and Maxer is such a stud in his tux! your tears and pain are always going to be welcomed and hopefully comforted in our company and home... i'm not sure if this is helpful to write but just so you know.
I am glad you made it through the weekend. These big events are hard.
This weekend I was an emotional wreck while watching my daughter in her graduation dance recital. I could not help but think of all that has happened in past year and how fast life goes on. Just like you there were emotional triggers everywhere. Even some of the songs that were danced to were too emotional to listen to.
I am glad that your daughter was honored as flower girl(every little girl wants to be a flower girl--and she was!) and remembered. You have a real good family.
I am thrilled that Max walked down the aisle! And, he looked adorable in his clothes.
Take care while you get ready for your move.
That is way sweet that they put Ellie in the wedding. I love the details, especially on the brides flowers a photo of your girl.
You are brave and a real example of grace. Thank you for all that you do and for just being a great mom to max. I know its hard to have only him but you gracefully take on your responsibilities both for him and Ellie. Its a real honor to have come across such a person as yourself. Thank you.
~Felicia
Max is adorable in his tux! And yes, it is a messed up way to spend Mother's Day. Lots of love to you momma!
What beautiful ways Ellie was included this weekend! And your son is adorable! I know this weekend was tough - sending my love to you. xoxo
i had chills reading this. such an emotional day for you and your family. but i absolutely loved all the ways you incorporated little Ellie in the wedding. i absolutely love it. it is moments like that, oddly enough, that bring me hope and comfort. seeing ways that our angels continue to be "present" in our families when there are not physically with us. ♥
Your family is beautiful, inside and out. It sounds like Ellie's presence at the wedding could have only been stronger had she been there (which of course I know you want most).
I too spent part of my mother's day at the cemetery this year, you were not alone. Sometimes we just have to do what we can to get through the day.
So gorgeous that Ellie was an honorary flower girl... she would definitely have been dressed up in Heaven and such beautiful flowers. Love the photos of you all.... looks like such a lovely day :) Love to you always xoxo
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