Ginny and I have been spending much time together figuring out what "from here on" looks like. Obviously, it has been difficult. Lots of looking at pictures (and, trust me, we have plenty), crying, and acknowledging to the other the emptiness created by our son's passing.
Thanks to all of you who have let us know what Eliot's life means to you. We love hearing how his life has impacted others.
We will continue to post (Wednesdays are still typical) what we are experiencing and learning as lessons from Eliot have outlasted his life. We intend to do a few things that will allow his life to continue to affect others. We are primarily at the idea stage, but ask you to check in periodically and see what steps Eliot's life spurs on. Also, feel free to share Eliot's story with whomever you feel might need it. It is, somehow, still a story of inspiring hope and a good God.
We are late to head out the door as I type. We are taking a vacation in order to just get away together. We welcome your continued prayers as we walk through this stage of the journey.
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The first idea to come to fruition is the following. Ginny has designed a necklace named, "eliot". For those of you who may not know, Ginny designs and sales jewelry (virginiabead.com). The design of this necklace is purposeful. Eighteen black beads and a single jade bead represents the unique creation that Eliot was to us. We hope to sale 1,000 of these necklaces. This is a lofty goal, so we'll take any help you can offer. The necklace will sale for $30 and 1/3 of each sale will go into a non-profit we have created. Quick math will tell you, we hope to raise $10,000 . We are still sifting through precisely how best to use the money. However, we will be sharing soon, and the ideas are good ones-dealing mostly with children. We will be selling the necklace online soon; however, if you know you would want one (or 10) just e-mail Ginny at ginny@virginiabead.com. It will be made in silver or gold.
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24 comments:
Great idea. Look forward to getting one. Love you,
Glenna
I think this is a wonderful idea, I would be honored to have wear one!
Hope you guys are having fun in the Big Apple....we'll be watching for ya...
ps I want one!!!!!
Lorelei
pss I want to add it to my VB collection....I do have a collection you know. (what other jewelry is there?!)
I've never worn jewelry in my life, but heck....I'll take one (or 10)!
Have fun in NYC...Tell Dave I said "Hi"
--------Josh
We love you! Have a great vacation and we are still praying for you. Also, Ginny I will email you my necklace order! :) I would love sterling silver if that is an option. God Bless!
I am so thankful that you will continue to allow God to teach us as you begin taking steps toward what is next. Please know that you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers,as is Eliot. His name is spoken daily in our house. Remember, that you are not alone on this journey, there are many of us who are lifting you up and anticipating the blessings upon blessings that God has in store for you guys. I take it you are headed to New York! That is one of Mark and I's favorite places to visit. Enjoy yourselves! I love the necklace and will send my order thru your website.
Love ya both,
Carrie Uberecken
I can't wait to see the wonderful necklace! God bless you both and you continue to be in my prayers.
You know I love me some Virginia Bead jewlery!! I will look forward to placing my order. I will be watching Dave Letterman with my eyes peeled. Prayers for a great trip- time together, no matter what you are doing (planned or spontaneous)! Love you both, Jenny Beth
Wonderful idea. Can't wait to see more of how God is using both of you.
Have a precious time away together.
I'd have ordered one even if it weren't so pretty, but it really IS a beautiful necklace! I checked out Ginny's website the other day and have several pieces marked for Christmas gifts. I'll send in my order in the next couple of weeks:)
What a creative and meaningful way to honor Eliot and other babies-of course I will want one!
The pictures of Eliot's service were so encouraging to me-I am so grateful to have been able to see your sweet faces surrounded by all that love and support. It is something I will never forget. I wish Tommy and i could have been there to hug you-susie&tommy walker
Matt and Ginny,
This is Lady Eady (Lewis Eady's wife-Ft.Smith S.F.A.). I visited with Sandra and Ron on two occassions and being proud grandparents as they are, they updated me about Eliot's progress and even shared his adorable photos. God bless you now and forever as you deal with the lost of Eliot. You all have been in my prayers and in my heart. Lady and Lewis Eady
Put me on the list...I love the necklace, but more importantly, I love the meaning and what it will represent, portray, and inspire me to remember.
We are praying for your hearts, your trip, and all of the in-betweens that cannot be put into words. We love you dearly. God has placed such an incredible marriage in our lives to be a model for us. And you know we need it--the corn tortillas are still an issue we are trying to deal with as a couple. We will talk to you soon!
Praying you have a relaxing time together to hold each other and be there for one another....God is so good and I see your clinging to Him in this time....God bless you. I will continue to pray for strength as the days go on and for unity between you both.
You are both an inspiration and a true testimony to the goodness of God...despite the hurt our hearts often bear....you both have come out shining!
Again, I have enjoyed coming onto your blog...you are an inspiration.
IN HIS GRACE,
Liz
Matt and Ginny,
What a fun trip!!! I hope that you guys have a blast. Just wanted you to know that there isn't a day that goes by that you are not in our thoughts and prayers. I cannot wait to order the Eliot necklace. You know I've got to have one of each. I'll send you my order.
Love you guys-
Kristi
I'm glad that you 2 are getting away,just to enjoy eachother...what a blessing! Still praying for you guys. We are definetly interested in buying a few,I would not pass it up for anything!...I'll check the website. Thank you,Ginny for thinking of this! I love it!
Great idea to take some time to get away! You are still in my thoughts, even though I don't know you personally. God is using you to illuminate His Light in so many ways!
Andi
Can't wait to wear the necklace! Sign me up for one. Also have fun on the vacation to the big apple.
Oh my goodness! We were just watching Dave Letterman and there you were! Wow! Hope you guys are having a great week together.
Hi Matt, I just wanted to know that I am praying for you guys and can't tell you what a blessing it has been seeing pictures of your amazing Eliot. We live in Fayetteville and if you ever need anything, please let us know.
Alison (Wilson) Hendricks
THANK YOU Matt, Ginny and Eliot... Most of all, God.
Hi Mooneys,
Letting you know that you and little man are still in my family's prayers and hoping that the vacation is a soothing balm.
Be good to yourselves and each other.
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