Earlier this week we celebrated Goodwin’s birthday. I tried to make it special for the girls. I bought them gifts and we celebrated with cake. For the most part, it was a happy experience as we talked about our love for Baby Brother, but it was impossible for me to sing happy birthday and blow out his single candle. It’s still hard to accept that our baby would have been an active, expressive one-year-old, but instead he’s not here.
But — we tried to make it fun. All the gifts were “from Goodwin,” and the girls enjoyed that.
(Side note: Many bereaved parents come up with ways to remember their lost babies, such as planting trees. Soon after his death, we set up a perpetual fund in his name that we contribute to. The money is used for special occasions like his birthday or the girls’ education. It’s been a comforting way to feel like he continues to share his influence with us).
(Yes… I kind of spoiled them. But they are in love with the Magna Tiles (the reviews are true: kids DO play with them for hours!), and I couldn’t resist the knitted dolls from The Land of Nod.)
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What Stephanie failed to mention is that I had a major hand in building the awesome Frozen-esque castle with the magna tiles. Sophie helped with the design and Ellie provided expert disassembly of the edifice.
I’m touched by how you have found beautiful ways to keep Goodwin a part of your lives. I have been blessed to witness your story over the last year; thank you for sharing. I can only imagine how hard it’s been, but I thank you for opening your heart and telling Goodwin’s story.
What a sweet way to remember Goodwin! 🙂
I love this idea! I can imagine Goodwin was so happy that his birthday brought joy to his sisters
So sweet. You can see the love your family has for Goodwin. This must be in some ways a sad day. I feel sad .
Happy Birthday Goodwin…