Farewell Baby Willow

It was a very difficult week
with the anticipation of my niece Willow's funeral. 

While choosing songs for the service, it was amazing how appropriate the lyrics of songs became
when listened to in a different light.

The opening song was this one from the musical Wicked:

We watched a slide show of pictures of Willow to this lovely old song:

We listened to this one, while we laid rose petals on Willow's coffin. My sister said this music helps her to imagine Willow happily skipping through a field of flowers.

We went outside the chapel to let balloons go, to this beautiful song by Ben Harper:

Emotions were high, and many, many tears were shed, but it was a lovely service, with my sister and her partner giving a heartfelt and honest account of their thoughts, feelings and experiences during this devastating time. 

It was comforting to see so many supportive

family members and friends

there to help remember this sweet child of God.

A collective gasp could be heard as we let our balloons lift to the sky.

Gosh, an occasion like this is heart-wrenching and difficult.

But there was a positive feeling of hope in the air, and I am sure many people left feeling they had helped to make the day somewhat easier for our family, with their love, words and hugs.

Bless our little darling Willow,

and may she dance with joy through the fields of heaven.

Willow Frances Tozer

26/10/11 - 6/11/11