Then sings my soul.

A few weeks ago my sweetest sweet Grandpa Camp passed away.

His health had been ailing, and the week it happened we were all prepared for what was to come...but even still, it doesn't necessarily make it easier.

We hurt. We miss. We wish.

But it is because we have loved him so very much that we hurt...and there is comfort in that knowledge.

And there is comfort in family. In wrapping yourself up with those special people who know your history, who share your memories, who've been with you through the journey of your life. 

 

My grandpa was an amazing man.

A historian.

A caretaker.

A storyteller.

A jokester.

A worker.

An outdoorsman.

A giver.

A gentleman.

One of the most kind hearted, selfless, and truly good, good people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. So very much goodness.

 

The whole family gathered in Lake Charles, Louisiana to honor his life. The place where he and grandma made their home for so many years. The place where they raised their family and even though it is so many miles from us here...the place that holds so many dear memories.

 

All 11 of us cousins were together again- which hasn't happened in a looooooong time. Too long of a time. A shameful amount of time really. Because when we are together, I truly never want it to end. These people that I get to call my family? I am blessed beyond words to call them that. I am humbled by the amazing things they are doing with their lives and their time, and every time I leave them I am inspired to be better. To do more. To give more.

Watching my girls with these special aunties and uncles and cousins...some of whom hadn't seen them in years or even met them...I was overcome. It was like they just knew. We pick up where we left off, or I suppose in the case of the girls- we pick up as if we've been together all along.

 

Our time together and his service were truly a celebration of his life (and I thankfully made it through singing How Great Thou Art...phewsh).

I know that my sweet grandpa was happily smiling down on us. His family was the most beloved thing in his life and we will all carry him with us in our hearts always.

 

{Cousins...if you are reading this...Yellowstone 2015 IS happening}

 

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 Grandpa and Grandma when they got engaged I believe. I think they look a bit like movie stars!

 

Louisiana here we come!

 Hope and Laura Kate...my girls before I had my girls.

Some Southern fried goodness.

 Cousins!!

Showing off her walking skills.

 Oh happy day...our luggage arrived.

 Listen, I realize this is a first world problem...but when your entire family packs in one bag across the country, it can feel like a big deal at the time. Sorry Z-- someday I will be as laid back as you :)

 

 

 Grandpa and Grandma's old house...

For the record...I LOVE minivans! So easy! So much room! Love them. Who needs a ride?? Oh, hop in- we have room!

 

Charlotte and Teddy. BFF's.

My Hopie girl. My soul sister, kindred spirit.

Games. Always and always, lots of games.

 

The whole Fuller clan.

 

My soul was singing being with you all.

xoxo

 

 Oh Lord my God
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the works
Thy hands have made
I see the stars
I hear the rolling thunder
Thy power throughout
The universe displayed

Then sings my soul
My Savior, God, to Thee
How great thou art
How great thou art
Then sings my soul
My Savior, God, to Thee
How great Thou art
How great Thou art

A year.

How it's been a year already is absolutely beyond me.
Birthday's are always cause for such celebration. So much joy. And also, as it seems to be with kids...for much reflection.

Photo courtesy of Erin Rinabarger

A look back at our year with our little dove.
Our strong, brave girl.
Our quiet soul, sweet spirit, content love.

The first year of life is so incredibly special, that with the first birthday it seems a wave of emotions can take over. Such excitement to think back on how much changed in the fast year, and also such longing to hold on to these infant days.

The intimacy of infancy is perhaps one of the greatest treasures I've ever known.
I.love.babies. I love them!! And I especially love this little baby (yes, she's one...but she's still my baby). So as much as I'm looking forward to all the incredible things that are sure to come with this next year, I will hold on a bit longer to these baby days.

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We celebrated her first year with family and a heart themed gathering. {Big thanks to Auntie and Peebo for letting us host the party at their house!}

It was a wonderful day filled with lots of pink, lots of sugar, champagne, food, and love.

Lots and lots of love.  

Soooooo big!

 

 

With her sweet Auntie and Godmother Becky {I think Madeleine was whispering secrets to her about how excited she it to meet her baby cousin!}

Big sister. You did AWESOME! I really wasn't sure how you'd take it all in, but you were so excited for your little sister and such a big helper. I love you my sweet girl!

 

 

 

 

She really is quite proud of her "How big is Madeleine?...Sooooo big!"

And we're really quite proud of her.

 

 

Little one...you have brought us so much happiness. You have been through so much this first year of your life and I am in awe of you. You are courageous and gentle, and you know what you want.

I love you, I love you, I love you and am forever blessed to be your mama.

xoxo