Hi Sweet Family and Friends, 

It's been nineteen days since our Gracie flew into Jesus' arms. Sometimes it feels like forever ago and other times it feels like yesterday. Her service was absolutely beautiful. We wrote love notes to Gracie, tied them to pink balloons, and released them to Heaven. I smiled as I watched them float away. 

Christmas time always makes us miss our loved ones that have gone to Heaven before us. I don't think anyone is immune to that heartache. This year it was especially difficult as we once thought we would be bringing her home for Christmas, but Jesus called Gracie to her eternal home on her actual due date, December 12th. We made it through Christmas and it was actually a beautiful time. We were surrounded by family and because of Gracie we all focused on the joy and gratitude of just being together. Sweet simplicity. 

Now, as 2014 is mere hours away, I wanted to write one last post to say thank you for being with us each step of the way. You have fed us, sent care packages, given us financial blessings when we needed it most, provided shoulders to cry on, picked us up when we were at our lowest, and prayed for us without ceasing. For these gifts we are grateful beyond imagination.

When the clock strikes midnight a new year will begin and I will kiss my sweet husband, look into his eyes, and believe with my whole heart as 
I tell him, "This is going to be a wonderful year full of beautiful blessings for our family." My hope is that we never forget what Gracie has taught us: to keep fighting no matter what, to not sweat the small stuff, hold each other closer, and love unconditionally and beyond recognition. 
Gracie was our whole world and our family isn't complete without her. Tomorrow is a new year with a new beginning. I hope that as we make our way through this new year we keep Gracie in our hearts and live a little like her each day--full of grace and grit. Remember her when you're having a difficult day and maybe things won't seem so bad. Try to be grateful and thank God even through terrible times and it will free you. I pray you have a Happy New Year and that you always remember our Gracie for the bright light that she was and will forever be. 
Love, 
Kelli ❤️