The Garlick family’s friendship with ours is a gift directly from heaven. In one short year they transformed our lives– turning us into beekeepers, expanding my quilting skills tenfold, sharing jokes and recipes and Lisa bestowing her magic upon Mary as her fairy godmother. No one comprehends grief like a parent who has lost a child; and no one has a better understanding of what is most important in life. Lisa’s blog is a haven of beauty, joy and wisdom.
I typed and retyped my introduction to their family photos and finally plagiarized Lisa’s words:
Family photos…we all love them and yet at the same time dread having them taken. But no family agonizes over this quintessential life event more than a family who has lost a beloved member. The thought of recording this moment in time without them is absolutely unimaginable; as if accepting their absence and smiling about it.
The heartbreaking reality of The Garlick Press family photos continuing without The Red One was inconceivable…until last week. It has taken us over three years to muster the courage.
How I wish with all my heart and soul that our beautiful red-head Jocie was in this shot…that life had not snatched her out of our family photo. But do you see that bouquet of roses I’m holding?…those are for Jocie. Fifteen roses…one for each year of her life with us. Red of course, for her signature gorgeous red hair.
This is the family of The Garlick Press. I adore each and every single one of them. Our faces twinkle with joy and smiles and laughs…overshadowing the dark pain and sorrow from the past few years. My family is my life, my joy, and my hope for tomorrow! May yours be also…
a rare shot of Lawyer Girl/Dione when she is not silly. Do yourself a favor and check out her birthday video for Chet.
Tracy
So beautifully captured. What an amazing family. Also, I now need another chubby baby.
Lisa
Sweet Michelle,
I’ll never be able to express enough gratitude for helping my family and I take this step. The photos are perfect! I have been the benefactor of your talent and generosity on so many occasions. Your friendship is so dear to my heart.
Cath
What a gorgeous, inspiring family. And that last photo of the roses alone on the bench/wall has me weeping. I cannot imagine that kind of loss. Such a tender and sweet way to remember their daughter. Lisa and family – you are blessing so many with your story. Thank you.
Judi
Lovely family…the last picture with the roses is so touching.
Mitchell Family
What a darling family. Thanks Lisa for comforting my sister when I’m too far way. We did check out the birthday video. Absolutely hilarious. The bench picture is just right. Ruth
Claudia
What wonderful pictures of a remarkable family. They sound like the kind of people I would love to get to know!
seven smiles
i love the idea of the red-rose place holder. beautiful.