ides of march comes again

today we have been thinking about penelope's uncle cameron. seven years ago today we lost him. i know he is doing well, and i have a feeling that he has been keeping a special eye on penelope. (he loves babies, you know.)

(which seems fitting since he was once a baby, too)

rather than focus on the loss of my ridiculous, hilarious, head-strong brother, i have been trying to remember all the tender mercies the lord has given me as a result of this experience. a greater sense of compassion for those who experience loss. an even more tender heart. a heightened appreciation for my family. a wonderful husband who brought me home a candy bar as my "ides of march" treat. an intense gratitude for eternal families.

most importantly, i have received (and continue to receive) a deep appreciation for the Savior.

i'm not feeling particularly articulate today (i am going to blame this on the new mom brain that has replaced my old thinking unit), so i will just share a quote that i have learned to be so very true (thanks, aunt lynda, for bringing it to my attention again!)

"The Lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be added unto them in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, the faithful will know that every tear today will eventually be returned a hundredfold with tears of rejoicing and gratitude."

--Joseph B. Wirthlin.

we love and miss you, cameron. in your honor, i will try not to take myself too seriously this week and down a couple of root beers, too. but i don't plan on ordering the shrimp and steak combo for breakfast. that is just going a little too far.

(i also resolve to get more pictures of cameron on my computer...)