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My aunt and uncle live in a cute little neighborhood in Calgary. Joel and I went on a walk to check out all the houses. They are beautiful. I love how they are all so different and have so much character.
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Here are just a few that we saw on our walk that I was ready to move into…
if I HAD to.






And hiding behind those shrubs and trees is my aunt and uncle’s house. It is just as charming as all the others.
I’ll let Joel take you inside.
Their yard is gorgeous. Trees canopy over both the front and back yard. It feels very secluded and peaceful. This is the front.
And this is the back.
We spent lots of time outside eating, talking, and relaxing.
Remember how I said my sweet aunt and uncle were awesome hostesses?
They were.
My aunt made us wonderful meals. It seems like we were eating ALL the time.
They let us sleep in as late as we wanted. It was so relaxing. That was definitely a treat for my farmer husband who NEVER gets to sleep in.ย 
And my aunt even made me coffee every morning when I woke up.
It was fabulous.
It was even better than our hotel we stayed at later in the week.
So, there you go. Welcome to Calgary!

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  • iluvmycrazylife - that looks soooo cute, i like those house to……bet it was lots cooler…we are in nc and it was soooooooo hot today…..glad you enjoyed your tripReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - love those houses…makes you want to move..you 2 deserve a little pampering!
    hope you are feeling well..

    KimReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - Keep the pictures coming!!!! Oh, and your house is JUST as charming!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Oh my, that is gorgeous. It sounds like you guys got a little break that was beyond needed. Farmer’s are such HARD workers. AND I believe that farmer’s WIVES are too. With all that you guys have been through since Cora got sick and went to be with Jesus, I am sure that the sweetness of your trip was just not as sweet as it could have been. God bless you Jess and Joel as you continue through this heart wrenching journey together. I pray that you will feel those blessings soon and that those family vacations will become easier, as well as all of those life moments without her. It is so good to know that you guys are so loved by so many. Praying for you and baby Mac always.ReplyCancel

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  • Trish - What fun houses… I like the second one the best. Although if I was being served and got to sleep in as late as I wanted I would choose your aunt and uncles house as my favorite ๐Ÿ™‚

    Cora’s playground looks so cheerful and fun! So thankful that we all could be apart of that ministry!

    Think of you often!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela - Those houses are breathtakingly beautiful! I love the way the shade hits the trees. Is that a strange observation? LOL

    I’m glad you both got a break. Eating lots and sleeping late are wonderful for the marriage and the soul. ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - Beautiful!! So glad you got some real REST!!ReplyCancel

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  • Our Family of 5 - Beautiful houses! Yay for a nice and relaxing week away! hugs and prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Holly - What a cute neighborhood! Such beautiful houses.ReplyCancel

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  • Brittany - Those are BEAUTIFUL houses. I am so glad you and your hubby had a good time. How’s baby? How are you feeling? I know Cora is looking down on you and smiling.ReplyCancel

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  • PamperingBeki - Oh how beautiful!

    Good taste must just run in your family.

    I’m so glad you two got to relax and be pampered a bit! You deserve it.ReplyCancel

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  • HighlandGhillie - It’s a beautiful province, isn’t it?
    I hope you made it out to Banff and Canmore!ReplyCancel

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  • Polka Dot Moon - A wonderful getaway for the both of you and what a beautiful place to visit!!

    Cora’s Playground is amazing!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - I’ve been reading your sweet blog since Meg took pictures of your adorable Cora…I’ve cried and followed your journey with the loss of her…

    I am so happy to see that you got to ‘get away’ with your sweet aunt and uncle…what a gorgeous place to be…

    Those home are gorgeous and I would just ‘Have’ to move there too!

    Just wanted to comment for the first time and know you are still lifted in prayer when I read your blog! Congrats on your new little bump!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - where in calgary is this? these houses are so adorable! i used to live there when i was really young and dont remember it much but i am planning a winter trip there and i am going to look for houses! i would love to look in this area!

    JessicaReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - That looks awesome and those houses are wonderful….I could pick one or two to live in!!ReplyCancel

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  • Falling Around - Totally green with envy right now! Yeah, I think I could be persuaded to move into any one of those houses… if I HAD to… lol!

    Your aunt & uncle sound like wonderful folks. I’m sure it was a blessing to them to be able to spend some time with you and Joel. And fresh coffee every morning… well, what can possibly beat that?!ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - i would have to say the blue (3rd pic) house is my favorite! wow! how adorable are those houses? sounds like a fabulous trip!ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - A home where you are so loved and cared for? Definitely better than a hotel! What a wonderful time for you both.
    I’m sure someone would have to twist your arm really hard to live in one of those homes! Ha!ReplyCancel

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  • Lexie Loo & Dylan Too - The houses are beautiful! It sounds like you were well taken care of there!ReplyCancel

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  • Kylie, Jesse and Asher - I LOVE old houses! Looks like a relaxing time. I’m glad that you and Joel had great time together. How is that belly?ReplyCancel

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  • Staci - Those houses are beautiful! So glad you got to get away and relax.ReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - I LOVE those houses, so pretty and so well maintained. Lots of character. Glad you had such a fun time and I love the secluded home your aunt and uncle live in…very cool. I had one crummy aunt and uncle so you are incredibly blessed! My great aunts and uncle were the coolest though and they were all from Canada too…must be something in their country that makes them so fun!ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon - Absolutely gorgeous! Those houses are just too cute, including your aunt & uncle’s. I would have spent most of my time outdoors as well if it looked like THAT outside!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin Stegent - ooooh…that looks nice! i want to go!ReplyCancel

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  • Robin in Benton - Glad you guys had a wonderful time! I guess I could be forced into living in that neighborhood if I had to too! Have a blessed day!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - What a gorgeous neighbourhood your aunt and uncle live in! I’m so glad you enjoyed your visit to Canada (I’m in Ontario, and lived over 12 years in BC).

    The playground is looking wonderful, too.

    I’m sorry you still have so much sadness, but thankful that you can think of your sweet first-born as being in heaven.

    Hugs to you. I am a mom as well and my heart goes out to you every day since I came across your story.ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - Those houses are beautiful but theirs is aboslutely ADORABLE!!!! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • mommyof2sons - Love the houses. Glad that you two had such a wonderful time with your aunt and uncle!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Trasie Bressler - I love those houses too and your Aunt and Uncle probably loved having you there with them as much as you loved being there. I’m so glad you had such a nice time!!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - Wow- what and absolutely beautiful place! You made me want to visit complete strangers! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • The Veers - I love love love all the houses! what an awesome neighborhood!so glad you guys got to go and relax and have time together!ReplyCancel

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  • Erin - You can call your aunt and let her know I’ll be there next week. ๐Ÿ˜‰ What a beautiful place and such a nice time for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Shawn - Cool post…can I do a similar one? ๐Ÿ˜‰ Some of those remind me of College Hill.
    So glad you had a blast–sounds kindof like she should open a B & B?ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - What a beautiful neighborhood those houses are just adorable! So glad that you guys got some time to relax ๐Ÿ˜€
    Hugs and prayers,
    Heather~On the HomefrontReplyCancel

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  • Kate - I’m so glad you had a nice time. You have made me even more excited for the trip I get to make in September to Calgary for a conference. I CANNOT wait to see Calgary for myself. Any hot spots you would say are can’t miss?
    My husband is in silage harvesting (in NM now, left the KS weather behind) and I know how much he loves a few days to sleep in – glad Joel got to enjoy that, too!ReplyCancel

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  • Lynn Jones - I imagine your aunt and uncle loved having you two–I had so much fun spoiling a young couple who visited us recently. Now I want to go to Calgary just to walk around the neighborhoods. I am traveling from AZ to Kansas City this week and will spend some time drooling over the gorgeous homes there. Thank you for sharing your trip.ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - I LOVE LOVE LOVE those houses! What a fun neighborhood! And a great aunt and uncle!ReplyCancel

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  • Lovely Little Flowers - I am drooling over those houses!! Only in my dreams! ๐Ÿ˜‰
    I’m glad you are getting pampered!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - OMG – You were right in my neighborhood ! We love Calgary and have lived here for almost 4 years now.

    I’m glad you enjoyed your time in our beautiful city !ReplyCancel

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  • Andrea - Wow, I love it. I’m a house-a-holic and LOVE looking at houses, so this was a great post for me! Your Aunt & Uncle’s house really is charming! It looks like you had a wonderful time. That’s great. =)ReplyCancel

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  • shepherdsgrace - lovely…

    you deserved the pampering!ReplyCancel

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  • Stephanie - Good ol’ Alberta – YAY!
    They are soooo lucky to live in a beautiful section of a fast growing city. I’m so glad you got to enjoy some of the “treats” of Alberta.. I think next time I am in the city I will pop by for some homemade goodness – what great relatives you have!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Sue - What a beautiful suburb!! I’m ready to move there too… Glad to see you and Joel had a good break together. It’s always going to be tough doing special things without Cora, but you are so good to keep going and to make the most of it. That’s all you can do!! The playground’s looking fabulous, I can’t wait to see it completed and full of kids!!ReplyCancel

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  • Maria - Those pictures are wonderful. I am glad you got a vacation. You remain in my prayersReplyCancel

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  • Clare Z. - Beautiful photos of Canada and the homes. Makes me think of the Hobbit and Anne of Green Gables all at the same time. I’m so glad you had a wonderful trip.

    How’s your little bun?

    ~ClareReplyCancel

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  • The little things - OU WERE IN CALGARY? I am so close to there and would have loved to met you and given you abig giant hug ๐Ÿ™ another time I hope! Hope you enjoyed the great white north!ReplyCancel

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  • Tammy518 - I love those houses! They have so much character. Your aunt and uncle’s house and garden are beautiful. What a soothing, restful place to relax. Sounds like you got some pampering, and that’s great!ReplyCancel

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  • Tina - Jess,

    That is so neat! I am glad you had a wonderful vacation and that you and your husband were able to relax and enjoy each other!

    TinaReplyCancel

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  • Whimsical Creations - Absolutely beautiful!!ReplyCancel

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  • business courses - You really had a great time with you aunt and uncle and the neighbor hood where you’ve been with is so cool..

    Big houses and lots of beautiful house.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I can’t believe you were in Calgary…that’s where I live. Thanks for sharing your life with me. You’re very inspiring!!ReplyCancel

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  • Nan - Hmmm… I’m trying to figure out which neighbourhood this is. It looks like it’s near Elbow Drive. I love that area. It’s the exact opposite of our area! We live in a newer neighbourhood on the west side (Tuscany) and much as I love our neighbours and our house, all of the houses look so much alike and are so close together… all the trees are baby trees so it can feel stark at times. I love older established neighbourhoods like your Aunt and Uncle’s.

    Beautiful!ReplyCancel

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Cora’s Playground is getting so close to being done.


The concrete sub-floor is all poured. Now we just have to wait for the flooring to be installed. Hopefully sometime this week!
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  • The Gunters - That equipment is precious!!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela - It looks wonderful! It is bittersweet to see its completion. Still praying for your hearts.ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - that little house w/ the slide is absolutely adorable! i love the colors & the cute yet abstract design!ReplyCancel

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  • Sherryl - I’m so excited for you Jess! Just think of your new baby playing in that playground soon!ReplyCancel

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  • starnes family - The design is beautiful….so fun and inviting. It’s lovely!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Great job you and Joel did picking out the playground equipment..bright and fun..oh how your heart must hurt in seeing it but what a fantastic legacy for you Cora…wish how I knew how to take away you hurt and pain..

    I think and pray for you every single day..

    KimReplyCancel

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  • The Dolezal Family - Amazing! What a beautiful play area.ReplyCancel

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  • Sherri - so precious!!
    still in my prayersReplyCancel

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  • Kristin Stegent - Looks awesome! Absolutely love it!!ReplyCancel

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  • Trasie Bressler - I love love love it!!!!! The play equipment is absolutely adorable and I think you did a great job of picking everything out perfectly!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - Wow! I love it!ReplyCancel

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  • Kimberly - Wow, its looking great!ReplyCancel

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  • meg duerksen - YAY!!! i haven’t seen it yet! it looks great!
    it is going to be so cool to see it all finished.

    your vacation looks like it was beautiful. i canNOT wait to see more. ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Elle's Mom - Oh my goodness! It looks amazing!ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - This has to be the cutest play equipment ever!

    Thank you for sharing! Still in our prayers!ReplyCancel

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  • Caroline - It looks AWESOME. Cora would be so happy. You have been a strong mommy and very brave. God must be very proud of you. You have always seemed to put Him first and it reflects in your blog posts.

    I might just drive it Wichita just to bring my kids to play at Cora’s playground.
    I am in Topeka, so it really isn’t that far, Ha!ReplyCancel

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  • Mindy M. Harris - The playground looks awesome. We may have to come and visit so Wilder can play on it! Is it going to have that cool, cushy floor so that crawling babies can have a “hayday” and not worry about sand/pebbles/wood chips?
    Thank you for sharing the pics!!ReplyCancel

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  • Shauna - Very adaorable!ReplyCancel

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  • shepherdsgrace - That is so stinkin cute!ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - Jess! That is honestly the most adorable playground equipment I have EVER seen. You’ve always had such wonderful taste. I’m sure it’s exciting to see it all coming to a completion. ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Jenny - That looks like so much fun!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anna - It looks great – so bright and colorful!ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - It is looking so GREAT!! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Itlooks awesome!!ReplyCancel

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  • Patty - Congratulations on seeing your playground idea come to life! Praying for you still, from way out here in California.ReplyCancel

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  • mrosev14 - Wow! Her playground looks fantastic!ReplyCancel

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  • Christine - Oh, this is SO awesome!! My daughter and I are both really excited to see the playground take shape. I love looking at those pictures and seeing the efforts of so many, the prayers, the heartache, the almighty power of our God as He pulled together a community to rally to support you and Joel.

    Still praying for you guys…..
    Much love from Texas.ReplyCancel

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  • mom2wendy - a wonderful memorial for Cora.ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - It’s beautiful, so bright and colorful!ReplyCancel

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  • TRICIA @boutellefamilyzoo - So exciting! Cora’s playground is coming together so beautifully, and quickly. Wow! I can’t wait to see the finished product.
    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

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  • Jody - It looks like it will be a wonderful place for kiddos to play and a sweet memorial for your precious Cora.ReplyCancel

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  • dillysplace - This Park is awesome…. We are building a no bounds playground in Conway Springs, Ks. Sumner County doesn’t have anything to offer disabled and abled children together.. You are such an inspriation. Thanks for sharing. The Kelly and Henderson family and Dillysplace.ReplyCancel

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  • Lovely Little Flowers - It’s so bright and cheerie!! It looks like God is really blessing this project!ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - It looks SO good!!!! And the pic form Canada is gorgeous!!ReplyCancel

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  • middleagedmom - Cute playground equipment. I’m sure the children will love it.

    I recently stumbled upon your blog. I am praying for you and your family.

    I visisted you etsy shop and saw that it was sold out. I am anxiously awaiting your new items. I have 2 little ones who woul look so cute in those clothes.ReplyCancel

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  • writing4612 - That’s wonderful! I can’t wait to see more.ReplyCancel

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  • The Jones' - Super cute! My son pointed and said “Mine?” haha! I am looking forward to seeing the end results!
    Blessings,
    LizReplyCancel

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  • NicXOXO - That looks like so much fun! My daughter said, “I wish we lived in Kansas so we could play there.” What a beautiful thing you have done to honor your daughter.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristen Andrews - wow that is soooo amazing, so glad to be a small part of it!ReplyCancel

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  • The Scott's - Wow, what a precious little playground. What a special way to honor your sweet little Cora.ReplyCancel

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  • Jenifer - I love the Colors …You know Cora is looking down so proud you and your husbandReplyCancel

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We have joked ever since Cora went to heaven that maybe we should go somewhere far away. Somewhere that didn’t make us sad, where our problems didn’t follow us, and where we didn’t have to face reality. Well, we decided to do it…
Actually, we just went on our summer vacation. We skipped the country and headed to Canada to visit my aunt and uncle.
We had a wonderful time and it was so good to spend time together and be away for awhile. My aunt and uncle are FABULOUS hostesses and made us feel so welcome. The scenery was beautiful and the weather was very un-Kansas like. Perfect.ย 

Here is a peek at one of the amazing places we visited.

Unfortunately, your heartache does follow you–we found out first hand. I had my moments when I just broke down because it seemed so wrong to be on our “family” vacation without Cora. And poor Joel had to walk with me through the airport with tears streaming down my face on the way home. I knew we were going back to reality. Back to our “real” life. And that was hard.
I have tons more pictures to show you, but those will have to wait until next week. For now, let me tell you about a few exciting things that happened while we were away:
Last week on Wednesday, as we were sitting in the airport waiting for our next flight, we got a call from Joel’s sister with the news that their baby boy had arrived.
Meet Heath Alan. His proud big brothers Henry and Harrison are holding him. We got to meet him for the first time yesterday. He is a sweetie. Congratulations Ben and Leah!
Also…
Things were very busy at the Cora’s Playground sight. All the equipment got installed while we were gone. We went by on Thursday and it looks great! I love the equipment. The colors are so bright and fun, just like I imagined.




I was told that the cement was poured on Friday. I will try to get some pictures of that tomorrow when I am at church. We are working on the final details of the flooring colors. Hopefully the flooring will get installed by the end of next week. It is coming together!
That’s all for today. Many more vacation pictures and stories coming soon!

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  • jen christians - So glad you got to find some time for eachother. That view IS STUNNING!ReplyCancel

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  • PamperingBeki - Whoa, you skipped the country!

    What a beautiful picture.

    I know you know this, but it’s never going to feel “right”. ๐Ÿ™ Everything is just horribly different from now on without Cora.

    You will, however, someday get to tell Baby Mac about the time he/she went to Canada… ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • PamperingBeki - Oh, and I forgot to say, Congratulations to your entire family on baby Heath!ReplyCancel

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  • Sherryl - It’s so exciting to see the playground coming together. Look at that slide! My kids would be so jealous!

    It’s okay to be a little emotional now and then. You are still healing. And you’re pregnant! Just blame it on the hormones. Glad that you and your husband got to spend some quality time together!ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon - So glad you got to get away for a while! And Cora’s playground looks beautiful. Take care!ReplyCancel

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  • Shelby - That picture looks painted. How beautiful! I’m at a loss for words on Cora. Just know I’m praying for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Amber - It’s so fun to see the playground coming together! I’m glad you were able to have a nice time on vacation, it’s hard coming back to real life! Congratulations to your sister in law on the birth of her third baby boy! I think it’s so funny that I too have a Harrison and Henry, I guess I know what name I should consider if I have another boy! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • jandkland - I hope I get to see such places one day. The photo is breathtaking. I’m glad you got to get away. It’s not fair that Cora couldn’t go with you in person, though she is always with you in spirit. I know you will always miss her. Always. And that hurts.

    The playground is awesome! The kids are going to have so many hours of fun on that equipment. You made some great choices and I can’t wait to see the final product!

    –Kelley in GAReplyCancel

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  • Heather - I’m so glad that you guys were able to get away….. I just wish that the pain didn’t follow you, but I know that isn’t possible. My heart just aches for you and it brings me to tears every time, I just so wish that Cora was still here with you and that you didn’t have to hurt like this. I think of you guys every day and continue to pray for you and Joel. I am so excited to see Cora’s playground coming together!! It looks wonderful!
    Hugs and prayers,
    Heather~ On the HomefrontReplyCancel

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  • Beckypdj - Congratulations on your trip and the playground!

    The first trip my husband & I took without our son was the same as yours. At that time we had been without him for about 7 months. We missed him constantly and yes, I too cried in the airport on the way home. He was 16 when he moved to Heaven and during the time away I kept thinking I needed to call him. We are 19 months into living without Peyton and it does get better.ReplyCancel

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  • Falling Around - Canada looks beautiful!

    Cora’s Playground is wonderful! It is going to be a blessing to so many families… including yours when you can take baby mac to his/her sister’s playground.

    Take care of yourself and baby mac!

    XOXOReplyCancel

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  • Shauna - The playground is so beautifully bright and colorful! The kids will surely love it! So excited to see it’s progress and thanks for keeping us updated!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Thanks for posting..Beautiful picture. So glad you guys got away for awhile. I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR HEARTACHE. I can’t imagine how hard your days are. Know that you have lots of people thinking about and praying for you. I know that doesn’t take your pain away, not really sure what it can do for you really. Just letting you know we are here..and it is OK to shed tears over your sweet baby girl. Love the progress on Cora’s Playground..
    CONGRATS ON YOUR NEW NEPHEW!

    Hope you and baby Mac are doing well.
    In my thoughts and prayers EVERYDAY!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - So glad you got a bit of time away ! Just curious was that a spot in Alberta ? It looks very much like the mountains in Banff or Jasper. We live in Calgary, AB and head that way at least once a month.ReplyCancel

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  • mom2wendy - I am so sorry that you must ride this restless sea. Grief is filled with so many whitecaps. May our unending prayers give wind to your sails until you reach safe harbor. Until then, may you be cradled against this raging storm. One day, you WILL reach shore. In Christ alone is safe haven. God Bless.ReplyCancel

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  • Judy - Wow, that picture of Canada makes me want to go!!!
    I love the playground so far! Can’t wait to see more!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi - Oh, the playground is looking like so much fun!! I am glad that you got to go away. I hope you are doing well.ReplyCancel

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  • Enos Family - So glad you got to get away. The playground looks amazing!ReplyCancel

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  • Kimberly - So glad you had a vacation and praying for continued strength.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - When I look at that beautiful mountain scene, and then think about your situation, I just want to yell at that mountain, “It’s not fair! Bring Cora back!”. I know the view is so pretty, but when your arms are empty, it is hard to appreciate any view. My heart aches for you, and I hope someday God can give you a good explanation for why things had to be the way they are. It sure doesn’t make any sense to me.ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - i am so glad you were able to go on a trip & you had a good time. what a beautiful picture, i cannot wait to see the rest! and i am so excited about the playground and how it’s progressing! if we are ever in kansas i’ll have to visit your church just so my 3 year old son can play there! ๐Ÿ™‚ blessings to you, joel, & baby mac!!ReplyCancel

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  • Trisha Larson - I do know first hand how your grief follows you. It’s in your heart and you can never escape that.

    I can tell you that I’m a year ahead of you in this walk. Our vacation last Summer was just about survival. It was not fun. I was not happy. But this year, we had a wonderful vacation. We were happy. We were joyful.

    We will always be sad that Nate is not here with us. That’s where he should be. But we have found peace in understanding that this is our life now. This is our walk and we are determined to make it the best one possible.

    We are still trying to get pregnant again. I’m really glad that you didn’t have this challenge too. But even with another trial, we are becoming happy again. You will too.

    Hugs!

    TrishaReplyCancel

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  • Valerie - Hey Jess,
    I’m so glad that you and Joel got to spend some time away. I know that things like vacations will never be truly whole, but all the same, I know it was good to get away. I continue to keep up with your blog. It’s so great to see much progress they have made on the playground. Next weekend Jason and I are going to the farm to see the family and we’ll stop over in Newton to visit Jason’s grandmas. We’ll be sure to stop by and see it!
    I wanted to invite you to look at my blog. Today I posted some pictures of Allison wearing one of Cora’s dresses. She looks so cute when she wears it. My blog is http://www.froelich-family.blogspot.com. Anyway, I thought you might like to see a little girl wearing one of your beautiful creations!

    As always, you are in our prayers.

    ValerieReplyCancel

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  • Livesays - hi Jess,
    I just had to tell you that when we pulled into church this morning and parked on the back side, Caden was SO excited about the new playground equipment. He practically leaped from the car and was shouting, “That park looks awesome! I can’t wait to play on it!” I asked him if he knew whose playground it was and he said, “I’s Cora’s Playground.Cora is in Heaven.”
    Just had to share with you that Cora’s life is continuing to touc big and little lives everyday!ReplyCancel

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  • Vera - I’m glad you go to go on vacation, but so sorry that Cora wasn’t with you in person – of course she was with you on that beautiful mountain, looking down on her sweet parents. Ya’ll are still so much in my prayers!!

    How exciting about the playground, I can’t wait to see it finished!!ReplyCancel

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  • Leah - So beautiful!! Glad you two got to get the heck out of Dodge, though I know it is so hard every day without your baby girl…

    And, I don’t know if I had congratulated you yet on your pregnancy…so CONGRATS! Can’t wait to meet this little one!! Hint, hint…we should get together some weekend, even before baby Mac arrives ๐Ÿ™‚ It’s been SO long!ReplyCancel

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  • Micah - What a gorgeous view. Surely that is a postcard, and not really a photo that you took! I’m so sorry for the sad times that will always mingle in among your fun times. May it always serve as a reminder that this world is not our home.

    Yeah for the playground progress!!! How FUN!ReplyCancel

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  • CourtneyC - That picture is amazing. Looks like it could be a postcard.

    Cora’s playground is looking awesome!ReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - That lake is AMAZING!!

    And Cora’s playground looks great so far, LOVE all the color! So glad it will be finished in time for baby Mac!ReplyCancel

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  • Lacie and Stephen - We did the same thing about 8 months after our little girl died. I was 16-17 weeks pregnant again with a difficult (physically and emotionally) pregnancy. It was so great to realx, but I too had my moments where I felt the emptiness that should have been filled with my child! That being said, it was still a great thing to get away for a week! Reality hit when we got home as a friend of mine who was also 16-17 weeks pregnant lost her second child in a year to premature birth! I will tell you it never goes away, but it does get easier even if it is only slightly easier!

    Love the playground!ReplyCancel

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  • Miss G - It looks very much like Alaska where we just went. Absolutely wonderful! I am so glad you had that trip. The playground looks fabulous! I love that cute little house. KellyReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Awesome, awesome, awesome playground. It makes my heart swell seeing those. I’m glad you were able to “get away” from the home…course your heart will never be able to “get away” from the pain. I continue to pray for you both that the pain eases with time. The photo of your vacation spot looked glorious…just stunning! Take care and hope you have a great week!ReplyCancel

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  • Juliann - You often come to mind and I pray for you every time. It was good to read of your vacation, and sad too. Although we don’t know each other, I will continue to pray for you.

    Juliann, Gurnee, IL
    (friend of Megan D. from when they lived in IL).ReplyCancel

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  • TRICIA @boutellefamilyzoo - It’s so nice to hear that you got to go someplace beautiful together. It sounds like a great way to spend a (late?) anniversary.
    The photo of the lake is beyond amazing. It looks very serene.
    I’m sure Cora was happy to see her mama and daddy celebrating together.
    Happy Anniversary.
    With prayers and love for all of you.

    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

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  • writing4612 - What an awesome view!ReplyCancel

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  • The Jones' - Beautiful!! Praying for you and Joel always.
    Blessings,
    LizReplyCancel

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  • Nan in Can - Wow! I knew that place the minute I saw it… Lake Louise is one of our favorite day trips! :^D Had I known you were in town I would have wanted to meet you and have you over for dinner. (Just so you know I’m not a freak-o I knew your husband’s cousin, Andi, back in college.)

    We just got back from vacation too… it was a wonderful trip but I now have Labyrinthitis (which is basically hell in your inner ear that makes you feel like you are constantly on a boat and can’t get your footing.)

    The playground is looking fantastic!ReplyCancel

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  • Elizabeth, The Mommy...etc - Oh, that is where I honeymooned…it is as breathtaking as ever, I see. Lake Louise…beautiful!

    I am glad that you are taking baby steps in your healing process and continoing to depend on God for the increase. Praying for you.ReplyCancel

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Seven years ago today I married my best friend…


I can’t imagine walking through life with anyone else!

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  • Kimberly - Congrats!!ReplyCancel

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  • meg duerksen - happy anniversary.
    what a blessing joel is to you. ๐Ÿ™‚

    seven years is big deal….way to go. it’s just the beginning.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Happy Anniversary..
    You two have walked through the most painful thing there is and you managed to do it TOGETHER! How amazing is that..What a blessing you are to each other..
    Have a great day!

    KimReplyCancel

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  • vintage at heart - Happy Anniversary. You are a very special couple and have taught those of us out here in blogland about the power of Faith and Love.
    May you be Blessed with many happy years ahead!ReplyCancel

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  • Chris and Crystal - Congradulations…..I’ve been following your blog for a while and can only hope to have as successful of a marriage as you two have. Today is our anniversary but we only have 1 year down. God bless you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • Todd and Courtney - Happy Anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Polka Dot Moon - Wishing you a fabulous day! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Joanne (The Simple Wife) - Happy anniversary! Wishing you both many more years together!

    With love and prayers from the Heim familyReplyCancel

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  • Allen and Debby Graber - You were meant for one another!! I still remember when you first were dating – Joel dating this girl who moved from Kansas City. Hmmm. Who knew how wonderful it would become!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Happy Anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • purejoy - happy anniversary. what a blessing to journey through life with your best friend!ReplyCancel

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  • Jenn - Happy Anniversary! I hope you have a wonderful day together!ReplyCancel

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  • Scott, Joanna, Matthew - Happy Anniversary! Hope you two have a wonderful day together!ReplyCancel

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  • Robin in Benton - Happy Anniversary – Hoping you have a wonderful day and many more to come.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - Happy Anniversary! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Angela Leaverton - HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!! You are both so blessed, I’m so happy for you ๐Ÿ™‚ have fun celebrating!

    AngelaReplyCancel

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  • Savanna - Happy Anniversary! Enjoy your special day!ReplyCancel

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  • Ki - Hey- we have the same anniversary! Six years ago, I married my wonderful husband.
    Congratulations and happy anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • PamperingBeki - God has blessed you two with each other.

    Happy anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I wish you lived just down the street from me!!ReplyCancel

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  • Livesays - Happy Anniversay! Wishing you lots more happy years together!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Happy Anniversary. Have a great day!ReplyCancel

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  • Rachel E. - Happy Anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - awww. congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Tara - Happy Anniversary! Hope you two had a great time celebrating together.ReplyCancel

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  • Michellesayshi - Congratulations! I just celebrated 6 months myself… What did you guys do to celebrate?ReplyCancel

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  • Jenny - Happy Anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Melody - Happy Anniversary!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Steph - Happy Anniversary!! Congrats!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Brian and Staci - Happy Anniversary!!! Such an awesome thing to be married to your best friend ๐Ÿ™‚ Peace be with you both!!!ReplyCancel

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  • erikadawn - Congratulations! I’ve read your blog for awhile (and have been so moved by your story) and I thought I would actually leave a comment!ReplyCancel

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  • Courtney - Congrats you two are wonderful together. Happy anniversary!
    CourtneyReplyCancel

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  • Heather's Home (aka Chez Hez) - Happy Anniversary, Joel and Jess! My hubby and I just passed our 10 year mark and I couldn’t be more happy, too! Much *hugs*!ReplyCancel

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  • Jill - Congrats! Wishing you many more happy years together!ReplyCancel

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  • Jess - happy anniversary! and what a wonderful picture of the two of you. i don’t know though…those grins look like they could lead to much trouble. you aren’t trouble makers, are you? ๐Ÿ™‚ take care, sweet jess and congratulations on the 7 years.ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - Happy Anniversary!! You guys are incredible!! And such a blessing to me!ReplyCancel

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  • The Koehns - You two are an inspiration. Here’s to many, many more years ahead!ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon - Happy Anniversary! Thank you for being such a wonderful inspiration of how a couple should be!ReplyCancel

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  • Courtney Cloud - Happy Anniversary. Today is my anniversary also. My husband and I have been married for 6 years. I started reading your blog when I was pregnant. I was so inspired by your strength through such a difficult time. I know that it was a “God-thing” for me to find your blog and start following your story. I went into preterm labor at 23 weeks and our baby Nate did not make it. I find comfort in your story. The Lord has been glorified through Cora’s death. I know that my life has been touched and changed and it has helped my husband and I cope with the death of our son. Thank you for witness. I pray blessing for you and your husband and the new life you are carrying now. Thank you again.
    Courtney
    http://www.thoughtsfromacloud.blogspot.comReplyCancel

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  • Lori - Awww…congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - Happy Anniversary!

    My husband and I celebrated 7 years also! Our anniversary was July 20.

    Congrats on 7 years together!ReplyCancel

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  • Lexie Loo & Dylan Too - Happy Anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - happy anniversary! you guys are a beautiful and inspirational couple that i know God’s hand is on. august is a great month to get married- my 5th anniversary will be on the 14 ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Sue - You are sooooo lucky… remember to keep counting those blessings!!

    Sue XXX

    PS. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Monica - Happy anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - Congrats!!! And here’s to many more to come!!!!! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Julie - Happy anniversary yesterday! I hope it was a nice relaxing day for you both!

    Thinking of you always!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - We share the same anniversary (just different years!). Happy anniversary to you both. I found your blog through a friend of a friend. I’m praying for all of you.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I’ve been following your blog for awhile now. Just wanted to say that my husband and I have the same anniversary, too! We just celebrated 1 year, and it has been wonderful! We are also only a couple of weeks apart in our pregnancies. Reading your blog has been inspirational, and we continue to pray for your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Happy Anniversary (a day late!) to you both! How wonderful and here’s hoping this next year brings you much hope and happiness. After 16 years of marriage, I can honestly say it just continues to get better and better!ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Oh Happy Anniversary!!! Hope it is an amazing day!!ReplyCancel

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  • Whimsical Creations - Hope you had a happy anniversary. =DReplyCancel

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  • The Mershawn's - Happy Anniversary! It’s good to be married to your favorite:). Still praying for you guys…ReplyCancel

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  • The Schilling's from Cimarron - Happy late anniversary! Hope you got to enjoy the day together! Hope you are feeling great! Miss you always!

    AMIEReplyCancel

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  • Brittany - Happy Anniversary!!! What a blessing you have been for each other…..its only the beginning! ๐Ÿ™‚

    p.s. 2002 was a great year…..we got married in June of that year!ReplyCancel

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  • Julie - Happy anniversary to one of my most favorite and special couples! You and Joel and have a beautiful relationship and I am so thankful you have each other to walk this road. Sending you much love!ReplyCancel

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  • CourtneyC - Hope you had a great anniversary!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Clare Z. - Congratulations on the “beginning” of a long and happy live togther. =DReplyCancel

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  • Jennjilla - Congrats! We’ll be 7 years in 14 days! Yea for 2002 brides!! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • shepherdsgrace - Congratulations…this is our anniversary month as well…August 31st will be our 18th….

    blessings, sweet couple!

    ~SarahReplyCancel

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  • The Hopkins Home - Happy Anniversary! Your marriage has had to withstand a lot this past year but it’s so clear through your writing that you and Joel are still the best of friends. I wish you both many, many more years of happiness together!ReplyCancel

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  • Katie Spinks - congrats and all the best for another 7, and then another 7 to come. May this year bring many blessings to both of you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Sophia - Happy 7th anniversary! (we are one behind you!)
    Continue to cling to eachother and the Lord. I pray that you are richly blessed, just as you have been such a blessing to so many of us!

    Enjoy eachother and thank God for bringing you together

    hope you had some cake! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Jenifer - CongradesReplyCancel

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  • PamperingBeki - Still praying for you daily.ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley Ann - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Wishing you and Joel a wonderful anniversary!!
    May you both be blessed by Jesus and each other!ReplyCancel

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  • Tammy518 - Awww, Happy Anniversary!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - A happy belated anniversary! We celebrated our 6th in July. Three children later, I am reminded to NEVER take my family for granted. Thank you for that, and may you enjoy many years (and more children) together!ReplyCancel

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  • Ryan's Mama - Give us belly pics! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Patricia - Congrats and love and best wishes to a truly, lovely couple ! Stay strong together always……God Bless you both and your familyReplyCancel

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  • Christina - I’ve seen this picture many times now, because I check on you guys each day, and what I just thought is that Joel looks just the same in the picture of you two, and the picture with Cora, as well as all the pictures I’ve seen of him on your blog. He always looks the same, that wonderful smile on his whole face. You are a lovely couple, but even more so because of who you are, and because you know Whose you are. So even though Joel is the same (and this is just what I gather from the small time that I’ve read about you guys) in the past, and now…our Lord is even more so the same yesterday, today, and we know He will be tomorrow and forever. So, as you continue your life together I pray that you will be encouraged, and that you each will remain rooted in the constancy of a sovereign God, and that His sameness will continue to be exhibited in and through you both as you celebrate year after year together.ReplyCancel

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Happy Birthday Joel!

I know you would love to have Cora here

to blow out your candles with you today.

I wish so much that she was here to do that too.

She would have wanted to give her daddy a giant birthday hug…

and a high five, just like you taught her.

I hope today you know how much you are loved…

by so many!

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  • Amber Ellis - God love that man. I hope he has a wonderful birthday. I know it is hard to feel like it is a blessing, but God put him on this earth for a reason.

    I hope you both have a great day ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • A - You guys have such beautiful life-moment pictures of you and Cora!! I hope his birthday celebration is fun, even as Cora is in Heaven right now ๐Ÿ™‚ That is so cute he taught her high-five…I want to teach my little one that…whenever he/she gets here!ReplyCancel

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  • Melody - Happy Birthday Joel!!! I hope your day is wonderfully blessed!ReplyCancel

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  • PamperingBeki - Happy birthday Joel!

    Cora’s high five-ing everyone in heaven today. With her chubby little dimpled hands.

    God bless you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • rentz - Happy birthday, Joel! We continue to pray for you two. And your new little one.

    I asked Jake, after we saw you at the wedding, if he knew you were having a baby. His eyes lit up and he said, “She is?” with a big smile on his face. He then told me if he could pick two teachers for next year he would pick you and Tobi. You’re still a favorite!ReplyCancel

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  • shepherdsgrace - May God bless him in a particular way to day that strengthens and encourages him…

    blessings…ReplyCancel

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  • Clare Z. - Happy Birthday Joel!!!
    May the Lord continue to bless you now on your very special day and always!ReplyCancel

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  • Julie - Happy birthday, Joel. I know the one person you wish were here is not…but know sweet Cora is smiling on you today.

    Hugs and prayers from Indiana.ReplyCancel

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  • Mandy - Happy Birthday Joel. I hope your day is full of love and happiness! You are one amazing man!ReplyCancel

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  • The Sweigart Family - Happy Birthday, Joel. We are blessed by your sweet memories of Cora. May God’s love comfort you today.ReplyCancel

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  • Jess - happy birthday to joel! happy birthday to joel! happy birthday mister jooooeeeeel! happy birthday to you! (just be thankful i wrote it instead of ‘blessing’ you by singing it!) ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Susy - Happy Birthday Joel. What a beautiful picture. May God bless Cora up in heaven.ReplyCancel

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  • Holly - Happy Birthday, Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - haapy bday to your sweet husband!ReplyCancel

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  • Emily - I love that in that picture there is a reflection of you as you smile at the loves of your life while you take their picture. It looks as though you are looking down on them just the same as Cora is looking down on the two of you today- with all the love in your heart. I hope Joel’s birthday is blessed, and that in the deep sorrow, joy and peace will overcome him this day. Prayers for you always…ReplyCancel

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  • Elle's Mom - Happy Birthday Joel!

    What a beautiful picture of Daddy and Cora. Thinking of you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - Awww, happy birthday!!!! ๐Ÿ™‚ And I know you’ll be celebrating it with Cora in spirit!ReplyCancel

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  • Kendall Smith - 29???? WOah!! That’s old!!!!!! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • The Hams - Happy Birthday Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - Happy birthday to one of the best husbands and fathers I can think of! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - Happy 29th Birthday, Joel! That picture of you and Cora is PRICELESS!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOEL!

    KimReplyCancel

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  • Rebecca - That is such a sweet picture. A treasure for sure.

    Happy Birthday, Joel. We hope you have a wonderful day.

    You are definitely loved by so many, even us strangers. We are keeping you in our daily prayers.

    Love and Hugs to both of you.ReplyCancel

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  • purejoy - what a sweet picture and memory. hope his birthday is a day marked by family and joy.ReplyCancel

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  • Rebecca - WOW!! I just noticed after looking at the picture a second time, that Jess’s reflection is in there too. LOVE THAT!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - Happy Birthday Joel,
    And enjoy a year full of promises and love.ReplyCancel

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  • The Bohrer's - Joel – happy birthday! I hear you almost got to share it with a new nephew!

    HeidiReplyCancel

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  • Robin in Benton - Happy Birthday – Blessings on you today. I know that Cora is smiling down at you and giving you those high fives!

    Hope you both have a good day – and remember that Cora wants to see you happy!

    HugsReplyCancel

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  • Christa - Happy Birthday Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • The Boccias - Happy birthday, Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • ryanandlindsay - Well, Kendall said what I was going to say. ๐Ÿ™‚ Happy Birthday Joel! If you need some youngsters to help you celebrate, let Ryan and I know. We can show you how its done.ReplyCancel

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  • Jamie - That is such a great photo! Happy Birthday!!ReplyCancel

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  • Sew Many Ideas, So Little Time - One summer I had the opportunity to drive my friend Avis around to small churches to preach. (Avis was 87 at the time and the wife of an Assembly of God pastor for over 60 years.) As the day got closer to the day her husband passed away I wondered how she would respond. She surprised us all by raising her hands announcing at the beginning of the sermon, that this was Chester’s first anniversary in heaven and what a wonderful day it was, I am focusing on what a time he is having in heaven with Our Savior!!!I keep her message close to my heart as I remember my sister who went to be with the Lord last January. Yesterday was the first time I read your blog about baby Cora, it was sad and painful, but what a spiritual legacy she left!!!These days are difficult, always the first events without them are hard,but Cora lives on! She just beat us to heaven! Happy Birthday Joel, Numbers 6:24 Barbara G.ReplyCancel

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  • Olivia - Happy Birthday Brother! We love you and wish Cora was here today to celebrate with you too.

    Hope you are having a great birthday meal today…even if it isn’t fried chicken and mashed potatoes and gravy! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon - Happy Birthday Joel! Hope you have a great one!ReplyCancel

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  • Misty Rice - I didn’t even need to read the post before the tears started falling. Just seeing that photo, my heart broke in pieces all over again. Oh how painful it is to see and hear the sadness your hearts have.

    Happy Birthday, Joel.

    God BlessReplyCancel

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  • me and my boys - happy birthday joel ! still praying for you guys !ReplyCancel

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  • wicker0407 - Happy Birthday Joel! Your family continues to be in my prayers I hope this next year proves to be amazing for you. God Bless!
    Summer & Family in CaliforniaReplyCancel

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  • Trasie Bressler - God must be so proud. Happy Birthday to Cora’s daddy and I’m sure she is smiling up above as you blow out those candles.

    Many Many Blessings!ReplyCancel

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  • Polka Dot Moon - What an adorable picture of the two of them!

    Wishing your hubby a happy day!!
    DeniseReplyCancel

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  • Ruth - Happy birthday, Joel! Even strangers like me think you are an incredible pillar of strength, and a true man of God.ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - As one other reader pointed out, that is an amazing picture of the THREE of you! That is how Cora is now, I suppose, like an image in a mirror, on another plane – except that you don’t see her (I had to look twice – I didn’t notice Jess the first time!).

    Happy birthday, Joel, you are a strong and inspiring father.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi REDISKE - Happy Birthday Joel. What a wonderful picture of you and Cora-what a sweet memory. Praying for you especially today.ReplyCancel

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  • Autumn - Happy Birthday Joel!

    That picture is so precious but breaks my heart that his sweet baby isn’t here to celebrate with him.ReplyCancel

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  • Allen and Debby Graber - 29? Wow! Congratulations, to a dear Daddy and a man of God! What a precious picture! Thanks for posting it!ReplyCancel

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  • Alice - That is such an adoranle picture, treasure that forever. I hope to both had a good day celebrate Joel’s day.ReplyCancel

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  • The Moffats - Happy Birthday, Joel. Know that you are soooo loved…especially by the Moffats! Wishing this birthday was as precious as your last but realizing the heartache that comes along with it. Praying for you…and Jess…and thanking God for your life and all the people you have touched so deeply.ReplyCancel

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  • Sue - Happy birthday, Joel. I don’t know you, but think of your family so much. I hope that your birthday went OK, it’s these special occassions that are the hardest to deal with. I am sure that you had a wonderful day in any event!

    SueReplyCancel

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  • Miranda - Happy Birthday, Joel! Hope he has a wonderful birthday!ReplyCancel

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  • Micah - Happy birthday, Joel. I’m sure it’s not your best birthday ever, but may God give you an extra measure of peace and comfort this day to help you get through. I’ll say an extra prayer for you all today.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I remember when you were born. Your family was so excited to have a boy — and it was 112 degrees that day. You have brought so much happiness to your family and you have inspired all of us in the way in which you have leaned on God. It seems that the more one depends upon the Lord, the more strength one has.
    I hope your birthday is happy.
    The picture is amazing and brought a flood of tears to my eyes.
    praying for you so often.ReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Happy Belated Birthday…hope it was wonderful and there is lots to look forward to with new baby Mac on the way. Be blessed!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi - I hope your husband had a great birthday!!ReplyCancel

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  • Allison - Happy birthday Joel! You share the exact same birthday as my husband, who also turned 29 yesterday. I hope your next year is a blessing for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Happy Birthday Joel!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Townsend Crew - God, Father to us all, we know you share Joel’s pain. You gave your Son to us and know the pain of watching your child in pain. Lift the pain and burden that Joel feels and hold him close to your heart…. and lift up Jess, as she cares for and tries to heal the man that she loves and tries to heal her own spirit. Keep them strong on their journey together.ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Happy Birthday!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • meg duerksen - happy birthday joel!!!!
    hope you are relaxing right now! you deserve some down time. have fun!
    it’s your birthday!
    in your honor i will have two desserts tonight! ๐Ÿ™‚ReplyCancel

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  • Judy - Happy Birthday to an amazing Daddy and super husband!!!ReplyCancel

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  • michelle - Happy (late) Birthday to Joel!!! I hope you were able to enjoy it, you sound like a guy who deserves it!!ReplyCancel

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  • Savanna - What a beautiful photo….and Jess’s reflection in the mirror is just so tender. I think of your family often. happy birthday!ReplyCancel

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  • Savanna - Your family is just so sweet and tender! Happy birthday Joel!
    I think of you often.

    –check out my blog at grits-savanna.blogspot.comReplyCancel

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  • Team Martins - happy birthday to man whose strength comes across the screen so beautifully! hope you all got a chance to hold each other extra tight.

    thank you for being such inspirations to us all.ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - You have been on my mind all day long, so I thought I should drop you a note. I’m praying for you!

    Happy Belated Birthday, Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Oh goodness, Hurts my Heart!

    Thinking of you.ReplyCancel

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  • Queen B. - oh my gosh, i just love that picture of your family.
    did you know you are in it ??
    Just look at how you smiled at your husband and Cora.
    Beautiful !ReplyCancel

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  • rebecca - Just wanted to drop by and let you know that you have been on my mind a lot today.
    Praying for you guys!!
    Love and Hugs.ReplyCancel

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