The back view where Daniel is laid to rest. He was laid to rest on 11-26-2004.
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Once back from pathology the Chaplain brought Daniel to me on Friday 11-19-2004.
I looked at him and he was very much different after a week more of decomposition. The fluids were pretty much gone from his body. His tiny feet and bottom legs were dried out and curled. I could see all his bones in his face since everything was sunken. I was surprised at how tiny the placenta had become. I kept him in refrigeration until we could bury him in the place we desired.
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His tiny coffin. The heart shaped box held the shrunken placenta.
This cross was made by my Grandfather. I decorated it with angels, doves and a harp. This is his temporary marker until we plant the tree around his due date.
Katie placing the flowers at his grave.
I set this little "shrine" up. The candle holder with handles has little cherubs and lions on. My Mother gave me this to remember Daniel by. Some of you may know the story of Daniel in the Lions den. I felt the praying and kneeling angel was also fitting. I light candles in both of these things.
This is the front view from his grave.
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April 16, 2005
Daniel's tree planting. We chose a weeping cherry tree. Daniel's due date was April 18. This tree blooms pretty pink blossoms around his due date. A lovely reminder of his life. My brother, Matthew, dug up the rocky ground and planted the tree. Katelyn was very much interested in being involved in the whole process from purchasing to planting. She too misses her brother. We are trying to be positive with a new baby now on the way. It has proven hard for me. My emotions have been all over the place this month. I cried deeply Friday evening before we left to the mountains for the tree planting. I miss him and love him.
On April 18, Daniel's due date, I took some time to reflect and be by myself. My mind wondered back to the day his body left mine. I felt he was telling me look Mom you did get to birth me, to hold me, to honor me. Like he was saying thank you. It made me feel warm.