2015
As I rocked her, a subtle glow illuminated an image that has settled deep into my soul. Never did I imagine it would serve as a compass for the journey we would all too soon embark.
“The wolf shall also dwell with the lamb & the leopard shall lie with the kid & the calf and the young lion & the fatling together and a little child shall lead them.”
The image is Edward Hicks’ The Peaceable Kingdom of the Branch. The words, from Isaiah 6, formed the border of the print I had hung when my brave one was still tucked under my heart. A beautiful image intended to be the first thing he saw in the morning and a final reminder of all that will be when he drifted off to sleep. I loved it so much it remained on the wall when she graced this world. Looking back, I realize she did not need the reminder- she already knows what it tells. The reminder is for me- a reminder of hope ignited by the innocence of a life truly lived.
Over the past two years we have been humbled by overwhelming generosity, consoled by heartfelt kindness and left in awe of the creativity shared in support of realizing Catherine’s dream. The outpouring has left us with pure admiration for the beauty that surrounds us.
In the coming year we will continue to honor Catherine’s life by creating a place where all creatures know she is kind. With love and determination, we will think creatively; share abundantly, and realize a place Catherine thinks the most beautiful on earth. We look forward with gratitude of what the coming year will bring and that you would walk this road with us.