Drew's visitation and service - January 24-25, 2012

As we began to plan and work through the struggles of planning our baby boy's funeral, you begin to think how could I do this and how can we honor Drew in such an amazing way. My dad helped us through the whole planning process and then we decided that January 24, 2012 would be his vistation at Harrisburg Baptist Church from 5-7pm and then we would have a private family only graveside service on January 25, 2012 at 11am. We decided to bury Drew over my papaw's grave. I felt completely comfortable doing this because I knew my papaw would be watching over him, playing with him in heaven, and even teaching him a few lessons about golf.

Visitation was packed with people we knew. Our Sunday School group is an amazing group of folks. They have supported us, prayed for us, and encouraged us during this whole time. A few of the guys worked as ushers and checked on us during visitation. So thank you very much! The sanctuary was beautiful with flowers from different people. Drew's casket was white and adorned with baby's breathe and blue hydrangeas, my favorite. We had a few pictures developed with us and Drew during his last day with us and those were sitting by his casket.

We wrapped Drew in white blanket that had been monogrammed with his name on it and placed a dog that had been given to the boys at Christmas by Aunt Mary. Will will have his and Drew will have his so there will always be that connection.

Drew's graveside service was perfect. Dr. Forrest Sheffield, pastor of our church at Harrisburg Baptist Church, did an amazing job. God was speaking through him because what he said was truly amazing words from God. It was refreshing to know and believe that Drew is in heaven with Jesus. We then gathered back at my parents house for lunch and to be with our family and friends.

My dearest Drew,
Even though you are not here with us, we will see you in Heaven soon. We miss you very much! When we found out we were pregnant with twins, we began praying that our children would come to know Jesus as their personal savior. You have already done that and are now with Jesus. We couldn't be more thrilled to know that Jesus is taking care of you right now. Please continue to watch over your brother, Will, as we soon will tell him about you and how wonderful and perfect you were. Yes, we will miss the times with you since we had so much for you to learn and love but we know that you will be watching over us each and everyday soaking up all that fun in Heaven. God took you from us too soon and we may never know his plan for that, but we know his plan is perfect. You have touched so many lives throughout this whole process and your short life has been a living testimony for us, your parents. We loved you more than life itself and I enjoyed those 6 short months you were in my belly having a party. You were a very active fellow and enjoyed kicking me and making me so uncomfortable. I sure wish I could have that back for just one second. Thank you Drew for your sweet and happy self. We cannot wait for that day when we all get to Heaven and see you!

All our LOVE,
Your parents, Doug and Kara