My Festival of Trees Experience

It's that time of year again. We got off to a great start with a visit to the Festival of Trees on Saturday. However, I wasn't prepared for getting hit with all of the emotions I've had this year. Each year we go I am reminded of several friends and loved ones that have passed away, but this year I had a few extra experiences to be mindful of.

One of the first trees we walked by was done to thank the NICU at Primary Children's Medical Center for the care they'd given an infant that was premature and is doing great. My heart was so thankful for the health of our twins, and I was reminded of the fabulous care we all received at PCMC. A few trees later was a tree that was done in memory of a premature infant that hadn't made it. My heart ached for that family and the families of the infants that struggle and fight to survive but don't pull through. I was also reminded of my friend who lost her daughter earlier this year, the baby had ancephaly. I just couldn't keep my composure.

A couple of rows down was a tree titled "Grandma's Angels." It was done in memory of an older woman who had passed away this year. My thoughts turned to my mother-in-law, she would just be thrilled to be here with her granddaughters. I am missing her so much right now.

The last tree that really triggered my emotions was dedicated to the staff and volunteers at PCMC. There was a television with a slide presentation set to the song "Angels Among Us." It had several pictures of the staff with words of appreciation that scrolled by. Our experience at Primary's was a positive one. I knew that our girls were going to be fine, they just needed a little jumpstart. I never had to worry about what the outcome would be. Everyone we dealt with was amazing! We had some extraordinary circumstances going on because Pam was so ill while our girls were there, and everyone was so incredibly supportive. It really was exceptional care.

I am so thankful for the knowledge of eternal families, and knowing that this life isn't the all there is. I am also thankful that while we will always miss those who have died before us, that the pain lessens over time.