7 years - Cassidy

Today would have been Cassidy's 7th birthday. It was a good day!

Earlier in the week the details of her birth and death had been discussed with a couple of ladies in my new ward and they were so kind this morning to show up at my door with flowers. We really have moved into the best neighborhood (not just because of the flowers)! A little bit later I had the kids look through Cassidy's photo album and through her baby box that holds a variety of momentos.

Later in the afternoon we took the Oquirrh Temple tour and it was a great reminder of why we are here on Earth and that our little family will be reunited with Cassidy one day. I remember going through the Jordan River Temple when I was little and I hope my kids are at the age that they will remember what a big deal it is to have another temple so close to our home.

We also decided that since we do not buy presents on this particular birthday, we would take the kids someplace we don't normally go. Jared and I decided the Mayan would be a good choice, since we haven't been since it was remodeled. We didn't tell the kids until we were almost there and they were excited. We got a really good table with a perfect viewing spot of the diving show. The divers came out 3 times while we were there and the food has improved a lot.

I put the history of Cassidy's birth on my blog last year so if you want to see it you can look under "Cassidy" in the labels. Today I thought I would put a couple of really thoughtful poems that family members wrote for me when she died. I have used them in cards for other people and I feel that they were really inspired.

This time in life we're tested by the loss of someone dear,

Who only for a moment could linger with us here.

Her presence gave us joy and love and also brought much pain,

As we struggled to accept God's will, and peace we sought to gain.

A lovely gift from heavn' above, she came down to this earth,

To teach us faith and trust in God; the reason for her birth.

We know she's sweet and perfect too; without the flaw of man,

She's gone to do a greater work; it's Heavenly Father's plan.

His purpose and reasons, though, may not seem clear or plain,

But through His many promises, great blessings we'll obtain.

For all families are forever and if each will do his part,

We'll live again together; it's the beauty of God's heart.

- Melissa Eichelberger (sister in law)

I'm a precious little angel

Sent down from up above,

I chose you as my parents

For I knew that I'd be loved.

You'll probably always wonder

And continue to ask why,

But this is what God wanted

So please try not to cry.

My heavenly spirit inside me

Was too perfect for my earthly stay.

So I couldn't live with you for now,

But I know I will someday.

You will always be my Mom and Dad

For now and in worlds to come.

I'll be waiting for that special day

When we're all together as one.

You were chosen for this special task

Even though it seems too much to bear,

If it were part of God's great plan

You know I'd still be with you there.

But God has other things in mind

That we do not understand,

He'll explain it to us later

As we're walking hand in hand.

Try to feel my spirit

As you struggle through each day,

I'll be there right beside you

Giving my love along the way.

I'm watching over you daily

From a place you cannot be,

But in time you'll be here with me

And then we all will see.

That life is just a blink in time

But forever goes on and on.

So keep me in your hearts for now

Until eternity when we are one.

- Diana Webb (cousin)