One month

I was dreading this day. I knew even before Abby was even gone that this day would come. People have told me that the first year is the hardest. We have to get through the holidays and her birthday, but today, I just didn't want to face. One month ago, I left my girl in a grave on a mountain, and slowly walked away.

Surprisingly, it wasn't a bad day. I miss her like crazy, but I felt peace. This is the video message that wouldn't play correctly at Abby's service.  I wanted to post it now, because today, I love to hear what pastor Keith (Crossings in Florida) says about what Abby is experiencing now.  What a blessing faith is, a gift from God to His people; and with that, the blessed assurance that our treasured child is safe and running in Heaven. 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmsA8x5qlBk&feature=channel&list=UL

For some reason, it won't embed here...ugh!  but please click the link! 

I took a few pictures of her after she died, just for me. I looked at them today and thought of how beautiful and peaceful she looked. Most of the pictures I had in the last few months, she looked so sick. It's almost easier to see her after she's gone than when she was sick. I know that most people don't like to think of their loved one gone, but I am grateful that my last image of her is so good. She had a little smile on her face that still brings tears to my eyes. I really needed to see that she was okay, and she was.

Today is also my dads birthday, so it's also nice to think of something not sad today. So, happy birthday, Dad! I love you so much and feel so blessed to have you!

My Dad and me :)
 

For today, we are doing okay.  I sure appreciate all the prayers, and I have to also mention the steady stream of cards and encouragement.  Not one day has gone by since Abby died without there being a card or something arriving to tell us we are not alone.  Thank you!! Your constant encouragement means more than any words I could ever write.  Thank you for remembering Abby and for missing her with us. 

I promise that one day I will have something to say that isn't all about missing Abby, but I hope you will stick with me through this.  Life is messy, and losing someone you love is consuming, but there is goodness and joy!  I love having you all on this journey with me!