Tuesday, July 14, 2009

for kate.

A few weeks ago, I was able to go spend a few days taking care of one of my best friends while she was on bed rest with quintuplets. We didn't spend much time taking pictures, because the time was spent talking about the future, reminiscing about the past, sewing a few blankets for her five little babies, and generally enjoying each others' company. Four days after I left, I received the news that she delivered, held and enjoyed, and lost all five babies. My heart broke for her. But, ironically, it was Katie that gave me the most peace in the situation. So, Katie, these are for you.

June 7th



beautiful peonies given by a neighbor.

June 8th

Mack enjoying the guest bedroom where we stayed. He was immediately drawn to Jeff and Katie for the week we were there.

June 9th

The view from her back patio after a late night talk.

June 10th

Samuel, Susan, Lily, Alice and Elisabeth's blankets.

Jeff and Katie have been wonderful friends to us through the years.

*FAO Schwartz in New York City*

Our relationship has always been the perfect blend of supportive and supported.

*January '08 following a performance of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"*

...and I couldn't be more grateful for it. Love you, Kate.

*Christmas '07*

So, to
Susan Barbara
Samuel Hendrix
Lily Elise
Alice Louise
and
Elisabeth Ruth,

I can't wait to meet you. Keep the seats warm up there, will ya?

15 comments:

Keri said...

So sweet...

Jill T said...

This post makes me teary.

Libby said...

i am speechless. i had no idea. she is blessed to have a friend like you. what a sweet post.

Jaclyn said...

I don't even know Kate, but her profound loss has reduced me to tears. Maybe it's because I'm in the process of losing my own family member, maybe it's because I'm a mom. My heart breaks for her and her sweet children. Thank heavens for the gospel of Jesus Christ. The only way to make it through the loss of death is with the knowledge of everlasting life. What a sweet friend you are, Libby. And thank you for this post. We all need to hold our loved ones a little closer.

BusyMama said...

I had no idea this happened. My heart is breaking for Kate. But thank heaven she has a friend like you for support and the gospel for knowledge that those babies will be waiting for her.

Gina said...

Oh my gosh! That is so heartbreaking! I am seriously almost in tears. I felt so wrapped up in the situation hearing about it from you and I can't imagine what they are going through right now. What a whirlwind.

Anonymous said...

That is so heartbreaking, but she is lucky to have a friend like you to help her.

Richins Family said...

I haven't been able to get your friend out of my mind since I heard the heartbreaking news! Although I don't know her at all my heart breaks for her! I will continue to keep her and in my prayers :)

Amy said...

I gasped out loud. That is so devistating! Please send along our condolences and thoughts and prayers.

Jana said...

I really don't even know what to say. Not even knowing Kate, my heart is breaking. And my eyes are full. I am just so sorry. I know there are reasons for everything in this life, but what a horribly hard one to face. I can't imagine what she is going through right now. I will keep her in my prayers. Thanks Libby for reminding me to cherish all I have.

Amy said...

This is way off subject and I'm sorry for that but how do you know Mike Cunningham?

Brooklet said...

i read this yesterday and have been thinking about it since. I am shocked and so saddened for your friend and her family. I am glad they are finding peace in the whole thing, it is a good example for all of us.

Amy F said...

Kate, we are all thinking of you. What a tribute to your supportive/supporting relationship, that there was an Elizabeth Ruth named after you, Libby. Friendships like that last forever, for sure.

kami said...

what a terrible loss for your friend. i am so sorry - we will be keeping them in our prayers. i can't even imagine what it must be like to lose a child but i hope that kate & her husband will find comfort in the gospel and good friends supporting them through this trial.

Katie said...

Bil,
I love you lots. Thank you for this beautiful post, for your amazing photos and blankets, but mostly for your friendship. Everyone is right, it means a lot to have a friend like you at a time like this. I appreciate all your support and love. Come visit soon!