ThanksGiving 2011…
We have been truly blessed during this most trying time in our lives. As I mentioned, there were a few miracles that took place during our sweet week with Baby Afton. Knowing with such short notice that our sweet baby girl would be leaving us, my sister-in-law Bree (Kyle’s younger sister) made Afton the most beautiful, most tiny, most precious little white blessing dress.
When I first saw it, I just burst into tears. It really is the most special little dress. She told us that she really felt like angels were there assisting her to make it just right. It was truly amazing how it fit our little Afton’s tiny body just perfect. It was made with such detail and care. It was the most soft little dress with velcro on the backside to make it easy to dress her in it. Along with the dress, she made a little headband, a little bonnet and little white booties to match.
This was the little dress that our sweet baby girl was buried in. Just yesterday, Bree surprised me with a second little dress to keep, so that I can always remember the sweet little dress that our little Afton wore. (tears)
Thank you Bree. This was the most sweet gift. Knowing that our baby girl left this earth in this most special little dress, means so much to me.
My brother-in-law Dave (my sister Becky’s husband) made this little pine box for our sweet little Afton. With such short notice, he made this box with so much love and care. It was the perfect size. As difficult as it is to see something like this and know what it will be used for, I truly felt the love knowing that it was made special for Afton with so much love for our sweet baby girl. My mom lined it with soft white fabric.
Thank you Dave. This was so kind of you.
My sister Becky made these little monogrammed heart pillows. One for Afton to rest her head and two for us to keep. Truly such care and love went into such a difficult thing.
A little white minky blanket was made special for Afton by Kyle’s sweet cousin Steffanie. I love that our sweet little angel was surrounded in white.
A great big thank you to my sweet sisters. They have helped me so much during this time. They have taken our kids over nights. They really are like second moms to our kids.
Also a big THANK YOU to our sweet parents. Both of our moms served us so much during this time. Helping with our kids, meals and simple things that needed to be done, that we couldn’t do for ourselves with so much going on. Both of our Dads have been so supportive too, from giving me a blessing to speaking at Afton’s little service and dedicating Afton’s grave. We both have amazing parents who we love dearly.
Our little Avery has been so sweet through this all. It has been so hard to see her sad and missing her baby sister that she was so excited to have here in our family. So many have been so sweet to her and Aiden during this time. Such care has gone into taking care of our kids, who also have been so saddened by everything (more so Avery than Aiden), but I know that they both feel the loss.
Our sweet friend Heidi who has been with us through everything pregnancy related. She is an ultrasound tech, and has scanned me every time through the years. It is through her that we found out early about the IUGR of both of our girls. I feel lucky that we had her care through it all.
The amazing NICU staff. We had a small graveside service on Tuesday with just our families, and Afton’s sweet nurses and doctor who took such great care of her came to her little service to support us. They really are angels working in the NICU.
The NICU is a place that you really hope and pray you never have to spend anytime in, but knowing that our baby girl received such loving care means so much to me. They are such special people.
I am so thankful for Kyle. I feel so blessed that we had each other to go through this together. I cannot imagine going through this alone. This whole experience has strengthened our love for each other in so many ways. I love this man more than words can say.
And finally, I am thankful for all of you that have taken the time to share your love and support with us, along with sharing the story of our sweet little Afton with the ones you love. Your comments have lifted us up in this most difficult time. We have read each and every one, and felt your tears and prayers.
The life of our sweet little Afton has been such a source for good. She has helped us all remember how special our time here is. We could not have made it through this all without the knowledge that we will see our sweet little girl again.
Happy Thanksgiving Day! I hope you all are surrounded by the ones you love.
Michele Littlefield says
As I sat reading this tears poured down my face. I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine how you must feel. There is so much love in your life & you are amazing.
Bless you & your family.
Vanessa says
What a great support system you have. Still thinking of you and hope you are holding up ok.
amy cornwell says
Kami, I’m so sorry. I had no idea that Afton had passed but have been praying for your family and will continue to do so. God bless!
Glenda says
Thinking of you and your famy during thus difficult time! Peace and strength!!!
Kelley says
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers– your entire family.
Megan says
Your strength amazes me. Your daughter has moved me. Your family has touched me. Thank you.
Paige says
Kami,
I know nothing I can say can ease the hurt, but your family is strong. You are a forever family. You have wonderful parents and a great support. I’m so glad little Afton had such a beautiful dress and that your loved ones were there to show their love and support.
becky says
Seriously…go take a nap!
love you too..so much!
Tricia says
You are truly an inspiration for so many. The amount of strength you have shown during this time is astounding. May you and your family be filled with love this holiday season.
Evelene Sterling says
Thank you for sharing your difficult times with us because helps us to remember what is important in life. I will continue to pray for you and your sweet family.
Bridgett says
You are so strong….thank you for sharing. Prayers for you this day, Friend. I am not sure I could ever be so transparent..I pray a heap of rest and blessings on you as you recover physically and surpassing peace to you all. So thankful today for so much.
Kristy says
Tears stream down my face and prayers and love go out to you and your family. Your family and your baby girl have truly taught us all what it means to love and be thankful.
Natalie says
Praying for all of you, especially for Avery. The picture of her crying breaks my heart!
Amy says
Thank you for sharing this difficult time with us and doing so in such a touching way. I will continue to send my thoughts of healing to your family.
Jill Sumsion says
What an amazing out pouring of love you have received. You have been surrounded by so many loved ones. Your strength is astounding. Happy Thanksgiving to your sweet little family.
Tammy says
Your life is filled with angels right now. So sorry you’re having to go through this. I know your precious little girl will be waiting for you on the other side. I hope your family can feel of Heavenly Father’s love for you now and always.
Siobhan says
I really don’t feel as if I have eloquent enough words to describe how truly and deeply saddened I am for your family, I just want you to know that I have prayed for you daily and will continue to Do so. You are so blessed to have such wonderful people in your lives and I hope you will find comfort in the days to come, have a very blessed thanksgiving
amanda at every creative endeavor says
You are truly blessed to be surrounded by wonderful people who love you and your family so very much – I cannot believe how strong you are in going though something like this – You are an inspiration. Thank you so much for sharing something so dear to your heart. I pray your family has comfort at this very special time and am glad we have the gospel to know that you will be with your sweet girl once again!
With love,
Amanda
Lindy Barrett says
I am so sorry…words cannot express. I’m grateful you have been surrounded by angels and loved ones during this time. What a blessing to have been with and love one of our Heavenly Father’s most valiant and precious souls. Love to you and your sweet family.
becca dulgarian says
Kami, you and your family are teaching me so much. When it’s us who should be supporting you and lifting you you seem to be doing that for all of us! Love you doll face! How blessed I feel to know you!
Erin says
Oh Kami. Tears are streaming down my face. I don’t know what to say. I’m so so sorry. Those pictures of your sweet baby girl are just beautiful. She is perfect and I know without a doubt you will be with her again someday. And every day now in your heart. Those pictures of Avery are hard to see. She is such a sweetheart and I’m sure this is such a difficult thing for her to understand. I know Heavenly Father is with your family right now. You are being watched over and will get through this. I’m so grateful you have Kyle and such an amazing family. I love you Kami. You are all in my prayers.
Natalie says
Kami, I am so, so sorry for you loss. You have been and will continue to be in my prayers.
Kerry - Kid Giddy says
After reading this to the end – and crying more…I can’t help but think of all the missionary work Afton has already done! What an amazing and blessed child. Hugs & prayers! – kg
carina says
I can’t even believe how strong you are and how lovely you look; I’d better be careful not to knock into the halo you’re wearing.
april narretto says
thank you for the reminder to not take life for granted {{hugs}}
Leslie Walker says
Your story has touched me. Four and a half years ago I left my job at Primarys NICU (I was a nurse) to be a mom. In the four years I worked there I saw miracles and I saw little ones return to their Heavenly Father. All the expericences confirmed to me that we have a very loving Heavenly Father! I am sorry for your loss and am glad you had the chance to hold her and love her and bond with her before she passed. Thank you for sharing your story!
BRandie Tryban says
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Please know we are thinking about you all and your sweet angel. I pray for peace and warmth to fill your heart. Thoughts and prayers to you all!
Joanne - Craft Passion says
I broke into tears about this sad news and feel terribly sorry about your loss . Though it is such a short journey of her life, I am glad that she is now back to her heaven father in peace.
Rest In Peace, Baby Afton……
Ann says
May God give you great strength, love, peace and hope. I have followed you for years and am greatly saddened by Afton’s passing. You are blessed to have had your time with her. There was a purpose for her making her appearance in your lives. I’m sure you are all better for it. I know you are surrounded by love….even from those who don’t know you personally.
Arianne says
You amaze me. I too am a mother to an angel baby. I am sending you lots of prayers and hugs to your family.
Kim says
My heart is full. This post is beautiful. You have not been far from my mind at all this week and especially today. May the angels continue to lift you and carry you at this time. Many huge hugs. xoxo
Kate says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. This just saddens me so much. I never, ever comment on blogs, because I always feel just a little stalker-ish, but I just wanted to let you know that we have been praying for your family and for baby Afton since we heard a couple of weeks ago. My kids have been offering all of their joys and suffering that they experience throughout their days for her and you over these last weeks. Every day they remembered to pray for her. It will be a long road of healing, emotionally and physically, but we will continue to hold you all up in prayer. Again, I’m just so sorry. May God bless you and continue to show you His mercy.
Cyndi says
I heard about your little Afton through some friends and just now realized that I know you from way back when. I am so sorry for the loss your precious baby girl. My son was born still last summer and I can empathize with your heartache. It is the most difficult thing a mother has to go through, but I know that Heavenly Father has a special plan for these sweet spirits. I pray that His love and peace are with you today and always.
mindi says
:(……….& 🙂
love you biggie peeps
Heidi Bigler M. says
I am in awe at your strength and the love of your family pulling together to help you at this trying time. Sweet little Aftons special touches are so beautiful- her dress, pillow and box… breathtaking. I am uplifted by your family’s love and your sweet little angel blessing. I am grateful to have found your blog awhile back- I look at it everyday. 🙂 Love and prayers to you.
Desiree says
You guys are amazing!
…♥
Mormon Market says
Our hearts go out to you! We are praying for your and your family so much….May the Lord bless each one of you.
Amy says
HUGS! “The best way to have a bit of heaven in your family is to have a bit of your family in heaven.”
lisa jack says
Tears! So grateful you have such support & love surrounding you all during this difficult time. My heart breaks for you, but especially your lil ones. Prayers!!!
Amy @ Living Locurto says
Thinking of you today. Love and prayers are with you all.
Melanie McLaughlin says
Hi there, I’ve been following your blog for awhile now, and just wanted to say how sorry I was to read of your loss. Your baby is so beautiful and I’m sorry for everything you’ve been going through. Stay strong. You are just a wonderful family. I wish you all the best.
Sue Berk says
Thank you for sharing. My 2nd daughter was born with an undetermined birth defect and we spent 8 weeks in the NICU. She still has many issues and ever since her birth, I appreciate sharing like yours more than you can imagine. You are such a strong woman and I am in absolute awe of your strength.
As an aside, I was actually amused that so many in your family are so “crafty” and jumped in, sewing dresses, doing woodwork, sewing blankets, etc. 🙂
In my family, I’d be lucky if someone brought over a casserole. Suffice it to say, I was impressed with yours.
Stay strong. The next few days and weeks and months will be the hardest of all. I will keep you in my prayers.
((hugs))
Holli says
I am so sorry for your loss. I know that my words can’t help you through this but time will. It does lessen the pain. My daughter died 10 years ago at 8 days old so I know what you’re living through right now. I’m praying for you and your family and your sweet baby girl. My God bless all of you and help you through this trying time…….
Betina says
Dearest Kami,
Thank you for sharing these sweet acts of kindness demonstrated by your loved ones.
Afton’s short life has blessed many people. Those who have helped you immediately surely feel blessed by the opportunity to be connected with her. I, who knew you only briefly and who lives several states away, feel inspired by little Aftron’s life… inspired to love each moment good or bad, inspired to spend a little more one-on-one time with my children, and inspired to look around my circle on influence and find ways to help people in need. Afton’s life makes me want to actively FIND out who needs me and DO something about it.
Thank you, sweet Afton, for this reminder, and thank you, Kami, for being brave enough to share this with us.
xxxx Betina Workman, WA.
JUdy Goldman says
I am so sorry for your loss. I do not know you but I can only imagine how overwhelming your grief must be. God Bless you and your beautiful family and extended family. Your Afton is a beautiful angel and what beautiful gifts you were blessed so she can now rest in peace. Please take care of yourself.
Amy {The Idea Room} says
Love you Kami! {hugs}
Jamie says
You are in my thoughts and prayers! I too lost a baby 8 years ago. I know that it is hard and there will be hard days to come. I pray you can find peace and comfort in the next few weeks and months. I made a little box that I put the special things that we recieved at her birth. My other kids still pull out her box and look through them occasionally and it is such a sweet experience for me to see her remembered. Hugs to your family!
LaVonne says
My thoughts & prayers continue to be with you & your family.
linda @ craftaholics anonymous says
Kami,
you are such a strong woman. i feel for you and your sweet family. i can’t imagine the heartache you are experiencing. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
best wishes,
linda
Emily Kate says
I just couldn’t read without commenting. Your sweet family is in my prayers.
danielle says
thoughts & prayers for you and your beautiful family. may the knowledge that we have a loving heavenly father and a plan continue to comfort you during this difficult time.
candy says
How beautiful your words and how sweet and tender your heart. Though her time here on earth was short…she will be part of your family FOREVER<3 Sending you hugs, love, and prayers.
Love, candy
jennie larsen says
Everything made and created is so beautiful and so meaningful, its just awesome. I am so glad to know that your sweet family had all that support around you… and still do. Thank you for sharing so many touching and beautiful photos. Lots of love to you and all your family. Xo Jen
Lainee says
Kami,
You are amazing. I can’t believe the strength of you and your family. Thank you for sharing your tender mercies.
Angela says
Again, tears… I admire your stregth for being able to share. The dress is really very beautiful. I am deeply sorry for your loss. *hugs*
Brandy Miller says
I am so sorry for your loss. I am shedding tears for your beautiful girl and your family. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
september says
I “happened” across your blog via stumbleupon. I say “happened” because I know there are no such things as coincidences and God wanted me to see your heartbreaking story for a reason. While there are NO words that can help you in this truly difficult time, I am very sorry that you and your family had to go through this. My husband and I had a similar experience 22 years ago, and there is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about my son. The only thing I can say with clarity, is that it will be a difficult battle and that with prayer and God, you will come through it. Please know that I will be praying for you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss.
September
Hannah Craner says
Beautiful casket and those pillows are so sweet. I love the gorgeous dress as well. So glad you are surrounded with such love and support. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It is so hard to see friends go through times like this, but it helps bring life into perspective. We remember what matters most. Lots of love, Kami!
Sara @ Mom Endeavors says
Tears again. What wonderful blessings from your family! Glad you are surrounded by such love & support. Lots of prayers for your family and especially for little Avery. Seeing her sweet, sad face in all the pictures is heartbreaking.
laurie eller says
i am just so sorry. there are really no words for things like this. my heart aches for you and your family. …so sorry.
Sharon says
I am so sorry you and your loved ones have had to go through this. But I am glad to hear of your faith and love that will carry you through it. And thank you for giving Afton’s life such dignity and significance. Many just want to sweep it all away without acknowledging the mystery of the miracle of life. May you know God’s nearness and great love for you all. May His arms give you strength and security as you continue the journey.
Ashley says
My heart is broken for you and your family. I can not even imagine what you all must be going through, But you seem to be so strong, not that that in any way takes away from the pain. You have a beautiful family and are obviously dearly loved. You are very lucky. Praying for you all.
Mandy Hague Hardman says
Kami, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you. I want you to know what a huge example you are too all of us. I hope you know what a huge impact her life and your experiance has had on all of us also! Your beautiful family and love is such a huge example to us all….Praying for you all—-
Meghan says
I happend upon your blog last week as I was thinking about my niece whom we lost almost 6 months ago as well. The time you were able to spend with her will be priceless in the end. He must have big plans for such sweet little girls. My God continue to bless you and your family in the coming days, weeks and months.
Our family is a circle of strength and love…
With every birth and every union the circle grows…
Every joy shared adds more love…
Every crisis faced together
makes the circle grow stronger.
Jocelyn says
Hi Kami, I am bawling as I type. I wish I was there to give you a big hug. The way you have shared this most tender experience has uplifted and blessed so many lives. You and Kyle are so strong. I know there will be hard days ahead, but you are both amazing and know that turning to our Savior is the way to find peace. I admire you so much and feel grateful to be a part of your lives. Thank you for inspiring me to be a better person. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Much love, Joce
Staci says
You have such a great support team, sounds like so many sweet people helped out in such genrous and amazing ways! love you!
Mandy says
1000 tears…much love and prayers for peace to the Bigler family…
Heather L. says
Sending all my prayers and love to you and your family. I love all of the sweet little handmade items. What a blessing those must be for you in this time of grief. Many hugs!
Honey (Livingstone) says
Thank you for sharing such tender experiences with your sweet Afton. She looks beautiful in her white dress – so perfect. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your precious family.
melissa @ the inspired room says
Thinking of you today. I’m sure your heartfelt posts and sharing so tenderly about your experience will be a blessing to many women who have walked down this same path of losing a baby. Praying for your family, Kami.
RebeccaF. says
Praying, praying, praying for you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss.
vicky t says
Beautiful pictures! Thank you for sharing such an intimate, difficult time with all of us. May you find strength & courage in the days to come.
Terri F says
I am so sorry for your loss. The last time I looked at your blog was when you posted about Afton being born early. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know exactly what you are going through. My son Jake(02/07/2002) was stillborn at 37 weeks due to an undiagnosed condition called vasa previa. God gave me the strength I needed to get through that difficult time and I know you will get your strength from him as well. God bless you and your family. Jake has another friend in Afton now to play with in Heaven.
EmilyF says
My heart just breaks for you. This is all so fresh to me and I ache just knowing what you are going through. I lost my baby boy crew on October 4th at 24 1/2 weeks. Your little Afton looks just like he did. It is still so fresh and still so real. They didnt know the cause at the time but now know that i have a clotting disorder. I just want you to know how amazing i think you are. I have read your blog since I heard the news and your history is incredible. You are so strong to keep trying, I admire that. Thank heavens for the gospel and the knowledge that we will get to raise them. Thank you for sharing your story, let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Marilyn Lott says
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I am so very sorry for your loss, and am thankful for the knowledge of eternal families.
Boston Mamas says
Sending you and your family so many hugs. Your strength astounds me. I am filled with tears. xoxox Christine
Kristen says
Oh Kami – you are so thoughtful to think of everyone else during this time. It doesn’t surprise me as you have always had such a kind heart. I am so glad you are surrounded by such loving and faith filled friends and family. Hugs and love to you.
Lisa says
I am sad for you, your family and your baby girl who will not get to grow old with her Mommy. I am so touched by the photo of you holding your daughter and she is holding her lamb. It is a beautiful moment though tough for me to view even from afar. You have such wonderful support
Jodi says
Just found your website. God bless you and your beautiful heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nicole Wilkinson says
Wow Kami, I hadn’t heard the news that Afton had passed away. I was just talking to my mom yesterday about you and she was the one who told me after speaking with your Aunt at church. My heart just broke, as this is something I can’t ever imagine having to go through. I’m so happy you have such a great support system. You are truly blessed and your precious little girl was so blessed to have a few days to share with you and your family. Please know that I’m thinking about you.
somedaycrafts says
My kids keep wondering why I am crying as I look at my computer. I’ve come back for a few days now reading and re-reading and hoping that the words will change. I haven’t known what to say. My heart breaks for your family. I’m sorry for this profound loss. My kids keep telling me “Mom. The baby will come back to life someday. She will be resurrected. Don’t cry.” You gotta love their faith. May you continue to be surrounded with love, hope, faith and the spirit in the days, weeks, months and years to come.
Kelley says
Kami, my heart just breaks reading this. Sending prayers to you, your sweet little angel and the rest of your family.
Marie says
What a sweet service with so many around you who love you! That dress, the pine box, and those pillows. So sweet!
I’m thankful for you, Kami!! You’ve shown such bravery, love, and strength! I’m happy to call you my friend!
melanie says
I have tears streaming down my face. Every tear and cry is being heard by our maker. He had a special plan for Afton. Bless you during such a difficult time.
domestic extraordinaire says
My heart aches for you and your family right now. I found your blog through links friends of mine were sharing on Facebook and I went back through and read all of the entries. Afton Jean is beautiful and I know you can’t wait until the day in which you all are together on the other side of eternity.
much love and prayers.
Alecia says
God bless you all during this time.
Jessica says
Oh my heart just aches for you. Seeing that little casket brings back so many memories of my own daughter’s passing. As I read your post though I felt so much relief that you are surrounded by so much love. How amazing that your family shared in preparing for Afton’s service. That dress is so gorgeous and all of the things that were handmade with love, so beautiful. Above all I could relate to seeing your expression in those photos, smiling but with sadness, I have done that so often. If I can help you through this in anyway please email me or send me a message on twitter. I would love to do whatever I can.
Abbey DeHart says
Kami, I’m so sorry for your loss. I just discovered your blog the same day you posted about your sweet little one passing away and seeing the whole blogging family pour out support for you. I’ve read all your posts since then and I sit here, tears streaming down my face reading your blog. You’re so strong and courageous and I can only hope that if I were to be facing your situation I’d handle it with as much grace as you are.
Again, I’m so sorry for your loss and you and your family are in my prayers. I wish you the best with the holidays approaching.
God Bless,
Abbey
Cheryl says
Hi, I don’t know you, but your journey has touched me so much. It’s so touching to know that you’ve great support by you and your family this whole time, physically and spiritually. I hope you’ll find more strength knowing that you’ll be together again as a family one day. I know Heavenly Father loves you and your family dearly. Stay strong and God bless.
Kelley says
After hearing about your loss, and after much prayer for you and your precious loved ones, I have posted a very special post on Kelley Highway. I have not infringed on any of your copyrights, and I hope you will be able to bring yourself to go and read the words.
It’s just a small token to not only tell the Lord I am grateful for every season of our lives, but to encourage others to be thankful as well.
Much love is going your way.
http://kelleyhighway.blogspot.com/2011/11/thirteen-ounces.html
*tears*
Karie McRae says
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers!
Allison @ House of Hepworths says
Kami & family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. There are no words. I just want you to know that the Hepworth family is thinking about you and praying for you. You have handled this with such grace and I’m glad you were able to share all these sweet little details with all of us. I’m not a crier, but I’ve had tears streaming down my face through all of this, this post is no exception.
My son was in the NICU when he was born, so I know first hand how amazing those nurses are. They are truly angels.
{{HUGS}}
xoxo
Allison @ House of Hepworths
Charlie says
It sounds like you have an amazing support system! I’m glad you’re surrounded by such wonderful people in such a hard time. And they’re all so handy/crafty!
Thank you again for thsring your story. It truly is a good reminder of all to be thankful for and all that is important in life. Difficult that it comes at this time of year that focuses on family, but wonderful that the spirit of the Savior is even that much closer.
Aloha,
Charlie
Kristen Duke Photography says
Beautifully spoken.
Amy says
Hi Kami…I found your blog through 4tunate. I’m so sorry for the loss of your precious Afton. I lost my first daughter shortly after birth also, so I know the pain you are feeling. I’m praying for you. I remember whispering into my Natalie’s ear as she was in her final moments, “Jesus is waiting for you.” Isn’t wondeful to know that once our girls left our arms they were able to run directly into the arms of Jesus? I’m praying for your family…that the Lord’s presence and peace would be obvious, that He provides the words you need to minister to your older children, and that you and your husband would be able to find comfort in one another. (((hugs)))
Sarah says
Kami, I found your blog through my Make and Takes e-mail today and I was immediately struck. I lost my first daughter 14 years ago and the e-mail took me right back to that day. I absolutely understand the pain you and your family are experiencing. I am truly sorry for your loss and grateful that you are surrounded by what appears to be an incredible support system. I remember being able to hold my daughter many times before leaving the hospital and being told by many older women that it wasn’t always like this. Not so long ago there was little if any grieving process, and I can’t imagine how awful I would have felt if that was denied me. So I commend you (and your wonderful friends) for taking the time to truly say goodbye and remember sweet Afton as a person and a God-given gift. You are blessed in those around you and I can tell you that this will of course always be with you, but it does get better. God bless you and your family.
Lori Allred says
I was coming over to your blog to find your email so I could let you know about your appearance on My Craft Channel with the Get a Little Creative Girls this week and saw this post. I’m so very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful thing to share this with your followers and the lovely thank you’s to so many. During such a time of sadness it is truly an attribute to you that you would consider others. I am sorry and pray angels are with you and your loved ones!
Shelly Gonczar says
Kami, I am so very sorry for the loss of your little angel Afton. What a joy and blessing that you were able to spend time with her. My prayers go out to you and your family. {{Hugs}}
Leca says
My heart goes out to you. I am so sorry for your loss. It is so amazingly strong of you to share your heart with us. Thank you.
Lesa says
I sit here with tears streaming down my face and a heavy heavy heart as I’ve read your story. I just had a premature (but only 34 weeks) baby so I think every story like this just hits home. The pictures you shared are such a blessing for your family to treasure. I’m in awe at how thoughtful everyone was to think of just the right special gift to your family at this time but am especially amazed at the beautiful blessing dress and the second one for you to keep. What an amazing gift. I’ll pray for your family tonight for strength in the days ahead. Take care.
Siobhan says
Kami, I came here via an online boutique honouring you, and linking to your words. I have been reading your birth story, passing and now funeral of little Afton. Your strength and clarity speak volumes of your strength of faith. May the Lord continue to carry you through these days, weeks and months as you journey through this time of such sweet sorrow. Thank you for sharing your story so openly. Many prayers are being sent your way from Montana. xx
Candace says
I am so sorry for loss! My eyes are full of tears! Thanks for sharing your feelings so honestly!
Heather says
*gulp* … I’m so sorry. The comfort of loving family and friends and all the special things they’ve done at this heart-breaking time … well … in that you are most certainly blessed. Afton. What a pretty name.
Becky Royce says
I am so sorry for your loss. Even though it’s incredibly painful. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.
DomestiCurious says
It takes immense courage to write about such a sensitive subject. Your family is blessed to be surrounded by such thoughtful people. Thank you for sharing this story with us. Your family is in my thoughts.
Katina says
I read through all the posts about your sweet baby. I can’t even begin to express my sorrow for your loss. I am a former NICU nurse and I know the heart wrenching decisions parents like you have to make. My wish is that you find solace in the knowledge that Afton is an angel again and will always be with you, guarding over you and all you love.
cynD says
Sweetheart, my heart goes out to you and yours. We do know and understand the pain you feel. The loss is and ugly thing to bear, the blessing is she is with our heavenly Father. He knows all to well how it is to loose a child. It has been 24 , 23 & 22 years sence our losses, the pain is still there but we manage so much better. hugs and prayers cynD
Sarah says
Dear Bigler Family:
I am SO very sorry to hear of Afton’s passing. What a precious little lady. I am so glad that you were able to hold her and talk to her, before she went into Jesus’s arms. We will be praying for you and your family in the many weeks to come. May God wrap His arms around you with His never-ending peace and love.
angie says
This is my first time on your blog, and tears are just streaming down my face. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Losing a child would be the most difficult thing to endure in life. I’m sure she loves your letter—it’s spilling-over with love and courage. I know this will sound meager in comparison, but I lost my pup, my baby, three months ago. We rescued him just a year ago, and in that year everyone that met him knew he was chock-full of personality—energetic and up for anything, stubborn as all get-out, and bossy to boot, but also a great snuggler and adventurer—but he somehow came down with lymphoma. He wouldn’t eat a thing, and didn’t respond to any of the medications that were supposed to sustain him, and he died a mere week later. It was horrific to go through. Absolutely horrific. I still cry often, and miss him terribly, and he’s “just a dog.” I can’t even imagine the suffering if he was our real baby child. You are amazing to be able to endure the pain with such grace and gratitude. My heart goes out to you. Many hugs…
Mariela Arzabe says
Dear Kami,
I read your blog (which a friend directed me to) as fresh tears ran down my face. I also buried a beautiful little girl, 23 weeks and 5 days on December 15th, 2011. Our little Juliana did not survive the emergency c-section . I know just how you feel and I thank you for sharing your experience. May the God of all comfort comfort your heart and the hearts of your husband and children and may He continue to supply you with grace moment by moment. Feel free to email back if you would like ~ Mariela
Sarah says
I don’t know you ,but I just stumbled on this blog today when I was on Pinterest. I’m sitting here in my bed with tears streaming down my face. I’m so touched by these blogs about your sweet baby and family. What an incredibly heart breaking experience, and what tender mercies and beauty you experienced at the same time. Thank you for sharing this. It make me step back and take a real look at life and what it means, and the beauties and hardships and blessings we experience on a daily basis. Hugs and prayers.
-Sarah
Desiree says
Kami,
I could not stop thinking about you and your sweet little angel as I was getting this post ready: http://www.the36thavenue.com/2012/05/memorial-day-a-day-to-remember.html
You are both amazing daughters of our Father in Heaven and you both have touched my heart deeply.
I love you girl…♥
Thinking about YOU.
Nancy says
Hi Kami, it’s the 14th today, and you, your family and baby Afton are in my mind 🙂 I’m carrying you around with me everywhere. Today, all of you are helping me finish an important section of my dissertation (in case you xant to know what “we” are doing today :)). In my heart, you are 🙂 NAncy