tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88353852672268531832024-03-13T22:11:35.062-07:00Meaghan GrableMeaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.comBlogger775125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-12480622814530760122015-12-12T08:30:00.000-08:002015-12-12T08:35:06.364-08:00Happy Birthday Charlotte!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wQfJVB32U8s/UN-IGc76mpI/AAAAAAAAF0E/sL5e8WQMHlM/s1600/IMG_3043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wQfJVB32U8s/UN-IGc76mpI/AAAAAAAAF0E/sL5e8WQMHlM/s320/IMG_3043.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">In another lifetime, today would be full of balloons, cake, and presents for our first born, but instead we are remembering our first moments with the <a href="http://www.meaghangrable.com/search/label/Charlotte">sweetest, most content baby</a> I've ever met. I remember the nerves, tears, smiles, and all of the decisions we had ahead of ourselves, but at 2:35pm on December 12, 2012, we all said thanks that we were all together, at least for a short time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy 3rd Birthday Charlotte!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">love,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">daddy, mama, & Calvin </span></div>
Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-81007982391240746852015-11-11T04:00:00.000-08:002015-11-11T05:50:21.906-08:00Noonday Adoption Fundraiser + GIVEAWAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mercyinkblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-13-at-10.32.25-AM-750x301.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mercyinkblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-13-at-10.32.25-AM-750x301.png" height="160" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> image from <a href="http://www.mercyinkblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-13-at-10.32.25-AM-750x301.png">MERCY iNK</a></span></span></div>
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<i>Confession: I love the look of jewelry, but hardly wear it myself.</i><br />
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I don't know if it's my lifestyle (hello sweats!) or my lack of confidence wearing it, but jewelry just sits on my dresser, unworn & unloved. <b>That is, until I was introduced to Noonday Collection.</b> Since September, I have added several new pieces to my collection and now find myself reaching for these pieces whenever I get dressed & feeling more self-assured, as well.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QTY6GpYREoQ/VkJu7YSkRLI/AAAAAAAAF_s/jvVlZ9Kc2ag/s1600/meaghan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QTY6GpYREoQ/VkJu7YSkRLI/AAAAAAAAF_s/jvVlZ9Kc2ag/s400/meaghan.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">wearing the <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/Pws/HannahZirschky/eventstore11098/AMUS/product/Rachel-Necklace,2336,395.aspx">Rachel Necklace</a> + <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/PWS/HannahZirschky/eventstore11098/AMUS/product/Tangled-Beads-Bracelet,1663,396.aspx">Tangled Beads Bracelet</a> at The Influence Conference</span></span></div>
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If you haven't heard of Noonday before, their <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/pws/homeoffice/tabs/purpose.aspx?tab=17315430360256638312173920523">purpose statement</a> says it all:<br />
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<span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">We partner with talented artisan entrepreneurs to make a difference in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. By developing artisan businesses through fair trade, we empower them to grow sustainably and to create dignified jobs for people who need them. Together we’re building a flourishing world where children are cherished, women are empowered, people have jobs and we are connected.</span></blockquote>
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<span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">And on top of that, this company has a huge heart for those who have been called to adopt. Like my friends, <a href="https://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-home-baby-n/140103">Matt + Keri Nikkel</a>. </span><br />
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</span> <span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">So when my friend, <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/pws/HannahZirschky/eventstore11098/AMUS/default.aspx">Hannah</a>, became an ambassador and we began hearing more about Noonday, I immediately knew I would like to host a trunk show for the Nikkels. <b>If there is anything I've learned through observing their process, it's that adoption isn't for the faint at heart and with it comes it's own set of challenges & celebrations.</b> But if I could help in even the smallest way, I wanted to do so. </span><br />
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<b><span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">Enter: my <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/pws/HannahZirschky/eventstore11098/AMUS/default.aspx">Noonday for Baby Nikkel trunk show</a></span></b><br />
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<span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">With every purchase made through this trunk show, <u>10% of the sales</u> will go </span><span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText"><span class="fsl"><span class="text_exposed_show">directly toward the Nikkel’s qualifying adoption expenses to help bring home their precious child. And trust me when I say this child is already SO loved!</span></span> </span><br />
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<span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">In addition, <b>as a thank you to those who make a purchase through this trunk show, I am also giving away some "vintage Noonday" - the <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/PWS/HannahZirschky/eventstore11098/AMUS/product/Diamond-Drop-Earrings,2292.aspx">Diamond Drop Earrings</a></b></span><b><span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">.</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FwDybUiLorc/VkJs6sii2ZI/AAAAAAAAF_g/mczxmCjEdGA/s1600/20151110_123720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FwDybUiLorc/VkJs6sii2ZI/AAAAAAAAF_g/mczxmCjEdGA/s400/20151110_123720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText"> <span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">photo by Hannah Zirschky</span></span></span></div>
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<span id="ctl00_BaseBody_ctl01_ctl01_htmlControl_htmlText">These earrings are </span>made of hand-cast brass beads with a luminous turquoise glass bead on the end of each & are made with love in India (another place close to my heart). And as of this week, <u>they are sold out!</u><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>How do you enter?</i></span><u> </u><br />
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<b>Simply place an order through this link: <span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$text0/=1$text4/=010">((</span><a data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$range0/=10" href="http://bit.ly/MeaghanGrable" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/MeaghanGrable</a><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$end/=1$text0/=010">)) and add desired accessories to your basket. Upon checkout (very last page of process), you will be prompted to type in a Trunk Show name. Please type my name, Meaghan Grable, in the box. </span></span></span></b><br />
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<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$end/=1$text0/=010">That’s it! </span></span></span><br />
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<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$end/=1$text0/=010">When my trunk show closes next Friday, November 20, I will randomly select a winner from those who placed an order and contact them directly.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$end/=1$text0/=010"><br />
</span></span></span> <span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$end/=1$text0/=010"><br />
</span></span></span> <span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".15.1.$mg=2mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.2.$mid=11447106102162=213b5629fbd08429b97.0.0.0.1.0.0.0.$end/=1$text0/=010"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Disclosure: I was not paid for this giveaway or this fundraiser.</span></span></span></span></span>Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-29188059894057296692015-10-31T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-31T04:00:06.417-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 31Last day of <a href="http://write31days.com/">Write 31 Days</a> and this series on <a href="http://www.meaghangrable.com/2015/10/loving-through-loss-day-2.html">Loving Through Loss</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I DID IT! </span></span><br />
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<b>Thank you to all who have followed along, shared this with others, & cheered me on.</b><br />
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A couple years ago, I never thought I'd be sharing these thoughts out loud, but now, after 30+ days of writing, I feel more peace than I did before, which makes this series worth it, even if it took a lot of time & feelings to get through it.<br />
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<i>Thanks to the generosity of <a href="http://www.lily-jade.com/Default.asp">Lily Jade</a>, I am giving away one of their beautiful bags (winner's choice!) to a mom who has lost a child, either during pregnancy or after, on <a href="https://instagram.com/meaghangrable/">my Instagram page</a>. Loving on others is a big thing for me, so this is just a small way to say, "your loss is important!"</i><br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-26168086592946045462015-10-30T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-30T04:00:03.961-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 30<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">BLOG SHARES</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.athomewithnatalie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/LOGO-ATHOMEWITHNATALIE.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.athomewithnatalie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/LOGO-ATHOMEWITHNATALIE.png" height="115" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo from <a href="http://www.athomewithnatalie.com/">At Home With Natalie</a> </span></span></div>
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You might remember I mentioned Natalie earlier this week when I <a href="http://www.meaghangrable.com/2015/10/loving-through-loss-day-28.html">highlighted</a> her children's book "Mommy Has An Angel", but today I wanted to share her blog with those who need encouragement after losing a loved one.<br />
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Natalie lost her best friend several years ago to domestic violence and <a href="http://www.athomewithnatalie.com/search/label/tribute%20to%20shannon">now speaks out on this topic</a> in hopes that it may save someone else's life. Like others I have highlighted, I appreciate Natalie's honest approach to the topic. <b>It's hard to speak out against something that can be hidden behind the walls of a home.</b> I encourage you to read her story & share with those who may need it.</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-91853274597330754802015-10-29T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-29T04:00:01.580-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 29<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">EMOTIONAL SUPPORT</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLtJIJFo9q0/VjEq5w8YSDI/AAAAAAAAF_I/DXMyaMc9C2w/s1600/20130325-Edgren-0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLtJIJFo9q0/VjEq5w8YSDI/AAAAAAAAF_I/DXMyaMc9C2w/s400/20130325-Edgren-0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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It's clear that everyone processes loss differently. For some, they may suppress their feelings to stay strong for others, while someone else may just need to share all their feelings all the time. But one thing I want everyone to know --- <b>don't <u>over</u> worry about bringing it up!</b><br />
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For me, one of my biggest fears was everyone forgetting our baby girl because she would no longer be here physically. So my natural instinct was to want to talk about her all.the.time. However, <a href="http://www.meaghangrable.com/2015/10/loving-through-loss-day-13.html">people's reactions</a> made me hold back. Then something changed... <b>I stopped over worrying about what people would say and just let myself talk about her.</b> And you know what? Friends & family started talking about her more too, which I loved. Although everyone is different when it comes to their feelings, <b>I still believe that trying to talk about someone who has just passed away is worth it.</b> They may not want to talk about it right then, but at least you let them know you were thinking of them.</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-80764576924630362762015-10-28T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-28T04:00:01.554-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 28<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">RESOURCES</span></span></div>
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This week, I wanted to share a few books that have helped me process through our loss, besides the other resources I've already highlighted this month.<br />
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51DRSiDFc1L._SX331_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51DRSiDFc1L._SX331_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.bostern.com/blog/beautiful-battlefields/"><b></b></a> </blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.bostern.com/blog/beautiful-battlefields/"><b>Beautiful Battlefields by Bo Stern</b></a> // Shortly after saying goodbye to Charlotte, a friend mailed me the devotional to this book (thanks Karlee!) and then I found myself purchasing the book almost immediately thereafter because I loved the way Bo approached the hard question, "Where is God in the midst of this?" and found comfort in her answers.<br />
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51uLgBbgNCL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51uLgBbgNCL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="207" /></a></div>
<a href="http://angiesmithonline.com/books/"><b></b></a> </blockquote>
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<a href="http://angiesmithonline.com/books/"><b>I Will Carry You by Angie Smith</b></a> // This is another book that was given to me and one I couldn't put down. When I was reading this book, I felt like I was reading every feeling & emotion that I went through as we were informed of Charlotte's diagnosis, our decision to not terminate, and when we met her & said good bye all too soon. Yes, this is about the loss of a child, but Angie's faith throughout the book gives a sense of peace in a season of grief.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.athomewithnatalie.com/mommy-has-an-angel-book-reveal-website-pre-order-launch/">Mommy Has An Angel by Natalie Lesnefsky</a> </b>// I've been reading Natalie's blog for years, so when I saw her first mention this children's book she was writing after losing her best friend to domestic violence, I couldn't wait to read it. Now, with Calvin starting to become more interested in books, I find comfort in reading him this story, which Natalie wrote from her daughters' point of view. This is a tearjerker for sure!</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-76438200045280825822015-10-27T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-27T04:00:05.958-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 27<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">GRACE</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BRLLmW5QUeg/Vi6eYfuljGI/AAAAAAAAF-4/gedxI-BIhxE/s1600/20130921-Bush%2BPark-0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BRLLmW5QUeg/Vi6eYfuljGI/AAAAAAAAF-4/gedxI-BIhxE/s320/20130921-Bush%2BPark-0011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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Let me preface by saying I am a Christian, if that wasn't already obvious. And as I've told many people, I don't think I would have made it through without my faith, but one thing <b>I had to learn to have grace for was people telling me that our loss was "God's plan"</b>.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Yes, I believe God has a plan for all of us, but as I've said many times this month, trying to fix or justify loss is almost impossible, especially when someone is in the thick of it. Even three years after losing Charlotte, I still struggle with this because I don't know God's plan, especially when it comes to taking our daughter away from us. As I mentioned on <a href="http://www.meaghangrable.com/2015/10/loving-through-loss-day-17.html">day 17</a>, I believe God is sad with us when we lose a loved one, but it never made me feel better when someone said "this was God's plan." <b>So when it's said... Have grace. Know they mean well. And keep processing on your own terms.</b></blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-81127383646302103042015-10-26T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-26T04:00:03.623-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 26<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">TANGIBLE SUPPORT</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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As <a href="http://write31days.com/">Write 31 Days</a> is winding down (last week!), I thought why not go as simple as I can with this week's tangible support tip - <b>listen!</b><br />
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Stay with me... <b>I know listening isn't everyone's forte, but I don't feel like this takes a lot out of someone and ends up meaning so much to the one doing the talking.</b> We've all been there --- when we are in need of sharing our thoughts with someone and usually end up walking away feeling better after we do so. This also applies to helping someone through a loss. One piece of advice: <b>please listen, but don't try to fix it.</b> Nothing you say or do will take away their pain, but simply listening does help. <br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-27638203373459594912015-10-25T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-25T04:00:00.048-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 25<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">SCRIPTURE</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="text Rom-8-38" id="en-TLB-25220">For
I am convinced that <b>nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death
can’t, and life can’t.</b> The angels won’t, and all the powers of hell
itself cannot keep God’s love away. Our fears for today, our worries
about tomorrow,</span><span class="text Rom-8-39" id="en-TLB-25221"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>or
where we are—high above the sky, or in the deepest ocean—nothing will
ever be able to separate us from the love of God demonstrated by our
Lord Jesus Christ when he died for us.</span><br />
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<span class="text Rom-8-39" id="en-TLB-25221">Romans 8:38-39 </span></blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-61705114619747575422015-10-24T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-24T04:00:05.140-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 24<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">ENCOURAGEMENT</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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Time. When it comes to grieving, this looks different for everyone. Some people seem to bounce back after a loss and others are still struggling years later. And that's okay. <b>There is no <u>right</u> amount of time for someone to grieve.</b><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
One thing I longed for after losing Charlotte was a handbook on grieving. I wanted to know how long it was going to take and what I should know when it comes to processing, which if you know me is totally me. But unfortunately, there is no handbook because everyone is different. Like many things in life, we shouldn't assume anything about someone else, especially when it comes to heartache. Please know that <b>however grieving looks for you is right, but may not be right for the person next to you. </b></blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-79977831761630797802015-10-23T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-23T04:00:03.996-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 23<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">BLOG SHARES</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo from <a href="http://thespohrsaremultiplying.com/">The Spohrs Are Multiplying</a> blog<a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/"></a></span></span></div>
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I've said this before, but loss is loss. No matter who you lose, it's still hard. But you know those stories that you hear/read and it makes you think, "this cannot be real!"? This is what Heather Spohrs' story was for me.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I can't do her story justice, so I'm not going to try too hard. As someone who has also lost a young child, <b>I found comfort in her honesty & beautiful account of her daughter, Maddie's short, but impactful life.</b> Heather has also written on her point of view after losing her best friend to a terminal brain tumor and how that loss has changed her life. Heather has been blogging for over 12 years, so she might not be new to you, but <a href="http://thespohrsaremultiplying.com/living-with-loss/#axzz3pKIzmGW9">I encourage you to check out her page & read her posts</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"> on life & loss</a>.</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-13018845652494265012015-10-22T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-22T04:00:00.498-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 22<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">EMOTIONAL SUPPORT</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GC8jggc396g/VifqwxRA2cI/AAAAAAAAF9k/AmLyyMInHys/s1600/20130302-Oregon%2BGarden-0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GC8jggc396g/VifqwxRA2cI/AAAAAAAAF9k/AmLyyMInHys/s320/20130302-Oregon%2BGarden-0012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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Have you ever <u>not</u> said something to someone because they might take it the wrong way or you're afraid it might hurt them? When it comes to loss, there are things you shouldn't say, but <b>if you want to say something at all, tell them how much you miss the person they've lost.</b><br />
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I know this really only applies to those who actually knew the person who is no longer here, but for me, this has meant more than any gift I've received. Over the last three years, whenever someone brings up Charlotte's beautiful brown eyes or how easy going she was all.the.time, I beam with pride because it means she touched someone's heart. And <b>when I'm really sad she isn't here, these comments of what people miss take me back to our (short precious) time with her and warm my heart.</b><br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-55532634881294299152015-10-21T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-21T04:00:04.720-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 21<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">RESOURCES</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/537fc6b4e4b0544494c61bf1/t/55371850e4b05a14c751925a/1429674064736/?format=300w" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/537fc6b4e4b0544494c61bf1/t/55371850e4b05a14c751925a/1429674064736/?format=300w" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo from <a href="http://www.lifeastheartist.com/pregnancy-loss-resources/">After The Loss</a><a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/"></a></span></span></div>
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Today's resource is one I wished I had access to after Charlotte passed. As I mentioned, we didn't know anyone close to us to talk to about the loss of a child, so I turned to the Internet. And once again, thanks to <a href="http://theinfluencenetwork.com/ref/littlemeaggs">The Influence Network</a>, I was connected with <a href="http://www.lifeastheartist.com/about/">Jusika Martinez</a> - a fellow believer, wife, & mama to babies on Earth & in Heaven.<br />
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After her third loss, Jusika created <b><a href="http://www.lifeastheartist.com/pregnancy-loss-resources/">After The Loss</a>, a compilation of resources + tips for coping with loss</b>. Some are specific to pregnancy or infant loss, but some of them also span general loss. She even has a page on <a href="http://www.lifeastheartist.com/friends-family-of-those-whove-lost">resources for family & friends</a>, which includes a quick "what not to say or do" section. This is one of those websites I hate to have to direct people to, but love that it exists to help others going through loss because I longed for this three years ago.<br />
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<i>Jusika - thank you for creating this beautiful page!</i><br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-69453283599331660122015-10-20T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-20T04:00:06.159-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 20<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">GRACE</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aV7E4j38Igw/ViVP0L94e2I/AAAAAAAAF9Q/yIo5RuDBYo8/s1600/20110828-Cyndi%2527s%2BYard-0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aV7E4j38Igw/ViVP0L94e2I/AAAAAAAAF9Q/yIo5RuDBYo8/s400/20110828-Cyndi%2527s%2BYard-0012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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I've touched on the topic of "back to normal" a couple times already, but when you're living it after a loss, it seems unbearable. Even expected loss is hard to come back from. <b>Life looks and feels different, but at the same time, the world around you continues to go on.</b> And that's difficult to understand.<br />
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<b>Whether you're the one going through loss or you know someone who is in the thick of it, remember to have grace when life continues on</b>. It's obvious life will never be the same when you've lost a loved one, yet day-to-day activities will continue. As someone who has lost a child, <b>I struggled with why everyone acted so normal when I felt like I was dying inside.</b> Now, I know that no one will ever know what I was feeling exactly because Charlotte was my daughter, not theirs. It's not easy, but when I put myself in their shoes, I understood the bigger picture.<br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-18984673703922543122015-10-19T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-19T04:00:06.830-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 19<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">TANGIBLE SUPPORT</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EWpPF6w0sg/ViQQceSdSFI/AAAAAAAAF9A/u4E9FB52bNY/s1600/20110703-Flowers-0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EWpPF6w0sg/ViQQceSdSFI/AAAAAAAAF9A/u4E9FB52bNY/s400/20110703-Flowers-0003.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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<br />
Between Charlotte's birth, her passing, and her memorial, we were surrounded by family & friends. But once everyone went home and life went back to "normal" was when our loss felt the most real. Honestly, <b>I was afraid that everyone was going to forget about our baby girl</b>, but thankfully that wasn't true.<br />
<br />
<b>One thing I was thankful for when we were in the thick of our loss was the check-ins from people.</b> Sometimes they were on the 12th (Charlotte's birthday) or the 21st (when we said goodbye to her) of each month and other times it was just an ordinary day, but a simple text, phone call, letter saying - "thinking of you!", "how are you?", "love you" - is really encouraging and all you need to say.<br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-59039112508095956962015-10-18T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-18T12:24:26.183-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 18<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">SCRIPTURE</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7kEfZWHLCJI/ViPxo19H9EI/AAAAAAAAF8w/ODJYaCU4D9M/s1600/20110703-Jonsrud%2BViewpoint-0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7kEfZWHLCJI/ViPxo19H9EI/AAAAAAAAF8w/ODJYaCU4D9M/s400/20110703-Jonsrud%2BViewpoint-0040.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="text Hab-1-5" id="en-TLB-20128">The Lord replied: “Look,
and be amazed! You will be astounded at what I am about to do! <b>For I am
going to do something in your own lifetime that you will have to see to
believe</b>"</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Hab-1-5" id="en-TLB-20128">Habakkuk 1:5 </span></blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-15177180578758620092015-10-17T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-17T04:00:04.751-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 17<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">ENCOURAGEMENT</span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wsW2mJ2aqpA/ViHfCsjHlNI/AAAAAAAAF8c/WMGAfFOToxs/s1600/20131111-Photo%2BWalk-0067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wsW2mJ2aqpA/ViHfCsjHlNI/AAAAAAAAF8c/WMGAfFOToxs/s400/20131111-Photo%2BWalk-0067.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
<br />
Even though we were surrounded by family & friends after we lost Charlotte, all I felt was alone. No one quite understood what we were experiencing. We were empty handed. Heart broken. But through many months of healing, we realized we weren't truly alone - <b>God was sad <u>with</u> us!</b><br />
<br />
I know not everyone is religious, <b>but once I realized that God wasn't doing this TO us, but rather going through it WITH us, I felt a comfort that I can only explain as peace.</b> Sure, we are still sad and long to hold our baby girl again, but knowing God was mourning with us did help. So if you're in the thick of loss, remember you aren't completely alone, even if you feel like it. God is missing your loved one too & wants to comfort you through this loss!<br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-76500069112673233162015-10-16T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-16T04:00:09.783-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 16<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">BLOG SHARES</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwfaLvf7P7Y/ViBmcChQAFI/AAAAAAAAF8M/rgLhEwMEvyI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-15%2Bat%2B7.51.57%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="57" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwfaLvf7P7Y/ViBmcChQAFI/AAAAAAAAF8M/rgLhEwMEvyI/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-15%2Bat%2B7.51.57%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo from <a href="http://ourcitylights.org/">Our City Lights</a><a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/"></a></span></span></div>
<br />
In a lot of ways, the stories other people were able to write are what
helped me the most. Not only did they touch very close to home for me,
but they also encouraged me to share my story without feeling ashamed.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I first met Diana La Counte when we were placed in a online community group. From the first time I met with her, I immediately admired thoughts and outlook on life. <b>Even after losing her first child after carrying him for 40+ weeks, her positivity and love still exudes in both her posts & real life</b>, two things I had a hard time with honestly. Again, I urge you to read her story and <a href="http://ourcitylights.org/?offset=1409958781108&tag=max">insight on loss</a> because it's inspiring.</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-48100016807583527702015-10-15T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-15T04:00:03.323-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 15<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">EMOTIONAL SUPPORT</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQsSp1fFGRo/Vh6632DnoqI/AAAAAAAAF8A/O3dJiKAvcds/s1600/20121031-Photo%2BWalk-0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQsSp1fFGRo/Vh6632DnoqI/AAAAAAAAF8A/O3dJiKAvcds/s320/20121031-Photo%2BWalk-0028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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<br />
When we were told of Charlotte's diagnosis, I prayed for a miracle. When the doctors told us it was most likely lethal, we still hoped they were wrong. To be honest, I remember a number of times pleading with God to take me and save her because as a parent I just wanted to save my child's life. But in December of 2012, Charlotte took her last breath and <b>I was left empty handed & full of guilt.</b><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Still today, three years later, I think about what I could have done differently to save Charlotte. And I think this is a common feeling when one loses someone close to them. Guilt can be debilitating and hard to accept. <b>Be prepared to let someone process why they are still here and their loved one isn't, but remind them they are still here for a reason and it is not their fault.</b></blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-30116949910409777042015-10-14T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-14T04:00:00.517-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 14<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">RESOURCES</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R06qKZ-XGlE/Vh1rMtaBt5I/AAAAAAAAF7o/S6U48jW8nJM/s1600/20121221%2B-%2BCharlotte%2BNILMDTS%2B-%2B036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R06qKZ-XGlE/Vh1rMtaBt5I/AAAAAAAAF7o/S6U48jW8nJM/s320/20121221%2B-%2BCharlotte%2BNILMDTS%2B-%2B036.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">photo taken by our NILMDTS photographer, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jamie-Forsythe-Photography-130475536982157/timeline/">Jamie Forsythe</a></span></span> </div>
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<br />
This week's resource is one that was priceless for us because of something we did BEFORE we said goodbye to Charlotte. And honestly, we almost decided against all together. But thankfully we allowed <a href="https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/">Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep</a> (NILMDTS) to come in and photograph some of Charlotte's last moments here on Earth (you can see some of those <a href="http://www.meaghangrable.com/2013/01/now-i-lay-me-down-to-sleep.html">here</a>).<br />
<br />
As a non-profit, <b>NILMDTS has created a free service of remembrance photography for parents suffering the loss of a baby through a network of professional photographers all over the country.</b> And while this resource is primarily before loss has taken place, they have <a href="https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/families/services-for-families/">resources & services for families after loss as well</a>. This wasn't something we thought about having done in the moment, but today, <b>these photos are some of our prized possession because they are last photos we have of our baby girl.</b><br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-59410733046883239692015-10-13T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-13T04:00:06.801-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 13<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">GRACE</span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9MPbMUDTiFg/VhwkBBNtoMI/AAAAAAAAF7U/lljx_I-LX7o/s1600/20130302-Oregon%2BGarden-0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9MPbMUDTiFg/VhwkBBNtoMI/AAAAAAAAF7U/lljx_I-LX7o/s400/20130302-Oregon%2BGarden-0033.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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<br />
For a long time, I feared telling people about Charlotte. I wasn't ashamed of her; rather she was my whole world, all I could think about. <b>But seeing people's reaction when I did share our story made me want to not talk about her at all.</b><br />
<br />
On several occasions, I remember choosing to skim over the hard questions because the reactions were too hard to see. And <b>I know they aren't on purpose, they're human instincts, but they still hurt.</b> However, I realized how much my heart hurt <u>not</u> to share about her, so instead of fearing the reactions, I chose to have grace for myself & others and share our story openly.<br />
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-16116290034113775472015-10-12T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-12T04:00:03.895-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 12<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">TANGIBLE SUPPORT</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LNYTmu0xZi0/VhsZy_gtPfI/AAAAAAAAF7E/0ViAKNPbBj0/s1600/20140421-Calvin-0121-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LNYTmu0xZi0/VhsZy_gtPfI/AAAAAAAAF7E/0ViAKNPbBj0/s400/20140421-Calvin-0121-Edit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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I have never been a someone who likes a lot of "things", but for the last three years, anything that makes me think of Charlotte has made a special place in my heart. Maybe it's because she isn't physically with us, but <b>I have found that keepsakes have eased the pain of loss in a physical way.</b><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>Keepsakes can look like something different for everyone.</b> When found out about Charlotte, giraffes became her "animal" and today, we now have giraffes all over our home <b>in the form of stuffed animals, artwork/photos, or jewelry.</b> Speaking of jewelry, I was fortunate to receive many beautiful pieces from friends & family, but one of my favorite are the <a href="http://www.lisaleonard.com/stacking-rings-sterling-silver-prd-llr004-si-p2440/">Lisa Leonard stacking rings</a> pictured above that Sam bought me when Calvin was born. I feel like I have both my babies close to my heart whenever I wear these rings.</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-83370356523310113132015-10-11T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-11T04:00:00.144-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 11<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">SCRIPTURE</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ws0sMP-xEes/VhnH-yRZ1gI/AAAAAAAAF6w/KGfkXf9iJgo/s1600/20130926-Keubler%2BHill-0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ws0sMP-xEes/VhnH-yRZ1gI/AAAAAAAAF6w/KGfkXf9iJgo/s400/20130926-Keubler%2BHill-0080.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="text 1Pet-4-12" id="en-TLB-27450">Dear friends, don’t be
bewildered or surprised when you go through the fiery trials ahead, for
this is no strange, unusual thing that is going to happen to you. </span><span class="text 1Pet-4-13" id="en-TLB-27451">Instead,
be really glad—because these trials will make you partners with Christ
in his suffering, and afterwards you will have the wonderful joy of
sharing his glory in that coming day when it will be displayed.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 1Pet-4-13" id="en-TLB-27451">1 Peter 4:12-13 </span></blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-9499958094036112062015-10-10T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-10T04:00:03.831-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 10<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">ENCOURAGEMENT</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo taken by <a href="https://instagram.com/samgrable/">Sam Grable</a></span></span></div>
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Before experiencing the loss of a child, the closest I'd ever been to death was a distant grandparent, family friend, or a pet. And while those were difficult, I quickly realized that each loss is just that... <u>equally a loss</u>.<br />
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Unfortunately, not everyone will feel this way. But for me, I found that <b>NOT</b> ranking losses brought me more contentment than thinking mine was worse than anyone else's. Sure, we were sad & heartbroken, but so was anyone else who had lost a loved one, be it a child or a parent or even a pet. <b>Without specific context, one might feel like their loss is the worst and that may be true... for them.</b> I encourage everyone to take a step back from their feelings or experiences before trying to compare one loss to another. </blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8835385267226853183.post-81710896201882421642015-10-09T04:00:00.000-07:002015-10-09T04:00:08.633-07:00Loving Through Loss: Day 9<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">BLOG SHARES</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo from <a href="http://dianawrote.com/">Diana Wrote</a><span id="goog_1203013922"></span><span id="goog_1203013923"></span></span></span></div>
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In a lot of ways, the stories other people were able to write are what helped me the most. Not only did they touch very close to home for me, but they also encouraged me to share my story without feeling ashamed.<br />
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<a href="http://dianawrote.com/about-and-contact-me/">Diana Stone</a> is not new to the Internet. Besides writing on her own page, she's also been featured on and written for a handful of recognizable websites. Personally, I've read her blog for years and even had the privilege of hearing her speak at my first Influence Conference in 2013. <b>While beautiful & heartbreaking, Diana has continued to share her story of loss openly with grace &, more importantly, honesty.</b> And I admire that greatly! I urge you to read her story, if you haven't already done so.</blockquote>
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Meaghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13572661833134408178noreply@blogger.com0