My son Ryan had a bad concussion after colliding with a buddy in gym class. He became very confused and crazy about an hour after returning to class. He didn't recognize me or his brother. He had to be taken via ambulance with lights flashing and sirens screaming. All the while, I tried to comfort him and keep my mind from thinking about how bad it could be. I truly feared some terrible scenarios of brain surgery or worse. Afer cat scans and hospital transfers, it was determined he would be fine. There was no fracture, or bleeding or even swelling. Being told he was going to be fine let me relax. When you're a nurse, it isn't always good, because you know too much. I am so grateful to God that he let my boy be fine. That I have the opportunity to make sure he knows every day how much I love him.
One of my team mates at Coordinates Collections was not that lucky this past week. Her seven year old son, also named Ryan, lost his battle to leukemia. I am so devastated for her and her family. And I am reminded how close I felt to being in the position of losing a child. It's a parent's worst nightmare.
Ryan's favorite color was red, so we at Coordinates Collections wore red on Friday in a show of support as he was laid to rest. I was scrapping with papers from my counterfeit kit - which has a lot of red. I found myself thinking of him as I shuffled papers and looked at the sketch. This is what came together very quickly when I gave into my thoughts, and I will be mailing it to Kim to keep:
At first I thought maybe this wouldn't be a good layout to post for the blog hop, but changed my mind. Why? To remind people to stop today and give an extra hug or smile to their family and friends. To stop sweating the small stuff and just BE, and enjoy sweet moments.By the way, this is the sketch I was inspired by:
So now go hop to Crystal's blog and be inspired. Hope you have a good week.
23 comments:
OMG Debbie, I am crying here for your friend. My thoughts and prayers are with her family!!! You are the best, just in case you haven't heard that lately.
So sorry to hear of the troubles - what a fabulous way to comfort your friend - that is one beautiful page.
That is so sweet- love the paper with the writing for a mat and love the embellishments at the side- so lovely
What an absolutely beautiful layout with a heart-felt, beautiful sentiment behind it. Your friend is sure to treasure it. I am so sorry for her loss. Parents should never have to outlive their children.
This is truly beautiful, and I am so glad you shared it with us!I am glad your son is ok, and prayers go out for your friend!
What a beautiful keepsake for your friend.
Love it! Very nice layout.
That is such a beautiful LO for so many reasons. Also a very thought provoking post that has reminded me how lucky I am, I am off to kiss my children xxx
I'm glad your son is fine, but sad for your friend. Your layout is a touching tribute, and I'm sure it will bring much comfort.
What a beautiful gift for your friend. I swear this is the first blog hop I have ever been reduced to tears on. Thanks for posting that particular layout, with that story and reminding us all just how precious life is.
Beautiful layout. I'm sure your friend will treasure it.
I'm sure your friend will be comforted by this beautiful layout. Such a tragic event and you have treated it so gently and with just the right sentiment.
What a wonderful reminder to treasure each day. And I'm sure your friend will treasure your lovely layout!
Your stories touched my heart...I will think of that little boy the next time I am using lots of red, I bet. Your story is going to stick with me. I'm thankful your son will also be ok :) I love your layout...the embellishmetns are very pretty!
*meridy*
You are absolutely right...cherish everything now, because you never know. You did a lovely job.
First of all, I'm so glad your son is doing well! I've gone through that with one of my own, so I know how scary it can be!
The layout you did in honor of Ryan is just perfect for this hop! I just love all the sweet details, and know the family will appreciate it! The story brought tears to my eyes.
Wow! I'm so sorry to hear about your son, but am glad he is going to be o.k. I'm also sorry to hear about your friend's son. Thank you for the reminder for us to remember what is really important.
You did a great job on the sketch, and I'm sure your friend will love receiving this layout that you will mail to her.
I think it was a great layout to have for the blog hop! Thank you for reminding me and everyone to love those that are dear to us. Your friend will appreciate the layout to be sure. And glad that your little one will be ok.
Beautiful layout. Love the paper and your embellishments are awesome.
While I do not know this little boy or his family, I can imagine their pain. My heart goes out to them.
What a sweet treasure for your friend. It's just perfect! I will keep your friend in my prayers! TFS!
you're making me cry...Kim has been an OL buddy of mine for years now since Coordinates was the 1st ever scrapping forum I frequented...my heart was sad for her with baby boy's passing and I know she is soooo strong...she is gonna love that layout! AND YES, LIFE CAN CHANGE IN JUST AN INSTANT...some folks go through their whole life not realizing that and complaining all the way...Kim will treasure the "red" of it all...
Debbie...I read your post and I'm so sorry about what everything hapenned.I'm sorry for her loss
Your LO is so gorgeus, fabulous, I love all the emblishment and sentiment you put in your work!!!
I loved at all!!
Hugs from Brazil and I'm keep to visit you.
Cynthia
Post a Comment