Tomorrow Keith and I will be heading back to Omaha. We are having a service there for Ethan on Saturday morning at 11:00am. It will be held at Braman Mortuary (for those from the area, it is the 144th St. location), and we welcome anyone who would like to attend. There will also be an obituary in the Omaha World-Herald tomorrow with more details. We picked up Ethan's ashes this afternoon. It was a very difficult thing to do, but the urn we chose is beautiful. We decided on a box made of walnut wood with a cherry finish. It has a teddy bear engraved on it, along with Ethan's name and birthdate. It almost reminds me of a baby block, which is very appropriate. We knew we didn't want a traditional vase-like urn because we wouldn't be able to engrave it and it just didn't seem right for a child. The one we have is perfect for him and is a beautiful representation of his life.
We've had so many touching comments and prayers sent to us through the blog, email, and phone calls. They bring me to tears each time I read or hear them. We're hanging in there, and I am so lucky to have such a supportive husband and family. Keith has been taking very good care of me, getting me whatever I need whenever I need it. Our parents have been handling the arrangements for the service. I don't know what I'd do without all of their help.
Today has again brought its share of ups and downs for me, but the continuous love and support you’ve all been giving me has helped to ease the pain a bit. Thank you for that.
Love,
Ashley
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Every time I read one of your posts I am brought to tears. Just know my heart is with you.
ReplyDeleteHi Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI heard about Ethan's story last weekend over the 4th and have been following your blog ever since. You are so strong to share your inspiring story during such a difficult time. Please know I'm thinking of you and Keith and keeping you in my prayers. Take care.
"The angels are always near to those who are grieving,
to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God."
-Eileen Elias Freeman
Leigh (Ancona) Lindstrom
I just recently became a follower after reading Mrs. Doc Handsome's blog over at Hooyah from the Homefront and the post about Ethan. It brought me to tears. I just had to stop by and tell you that my heart just goes out to you. You seem like such an amazingly strong woman and your family is in my prayers!
ReplyDeleteYour love for Ethan is beautiful Ashley. Ethan would be so incredibly proud of his parents. I wish you the best of luck tomorrow at the service. The urn for him sounds perfect. I am glad you will be able to have him with you wherever you two are.
ReplyDeleteAshley and Keith,
ReplyDeleteI have been reading your blog and sharing your ups and downs over the past few months. Ashley I use to work with your mom at AAA. I knew you when you were in highschool etc.
I just want to say what a beautiful and amazing young women you have become. Your strength is amazing and such a great example for everyone old and young.
Life is a daily challenge and being able to handle all of the challenges that life gives us is how we all survive every day. You and Keith have taken that challenge to a whole new level.
Please know that my prayers are with you and your families. What awesome parents Ethan has.
I am sure he is telling all of his new friends about you.
Hugs and love to you.
Marilyn Maddox
I wish we could be there, but we will be there in Spirit! We are continuing to pray for you and Keith.
ReplyDeleteThe Bessiere Family would like to send their love and prayers your way. I hope GOD sends you comfort during this difficult time. Your family will be in our prayers today and everyday.
ReplyDeleteIn God we Trust no matter how difficult the task placed upon us,
Love,
Lesa
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteWe celebrated Caleb on Saturday at 11:30 with the most wonderful service, surrounded by the people in our lives that mean the most to us. It was a beautiful day. Once again, I cannot believe we were doing the same thing, at the same time. My prayer is that your day was as mine. RIP sweet little Ethan and Caleb... I know they will be best buddies playing with Jesus.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI found your blog through Lindsey's site and your post brought tears to my eyes. I know the pain you are feeling too well. Our son Caleb was born on December 18th, 2009 and lived a short 52 minutes. This blog is a beautiful way to remember sweet baby Ethan, I too have found that writing brings comfort. I pray that you will find peace, and strength in God.
Jessica