Happy Birthday Miss Ryann!

Nov 4th, 2009 was a special day for the Hiscock family. Miss Ryann Serena Hiscock was born. I barely knew her parents at the time but would get to know them over the next two years. Jared and Damie are fun people that I've really enjoyed getting to know. The lived here in Walla Walla area for most of Ryann's life so I had the privilege of getting to watch Ryann grow and watch her play with Chloe and Kayla. I even babysat Ryann for a time till I myself got pregnant again. She was a fun girl with a dare devil personality! She would constantly try and stand using my chairs on my hard tile floors. Scared me cause I was sure she would fall and yet she never did. I heard stories of her climbing on the back of her parents couch. She was definitely fearless! We would hang with the whole family, not often enough, and Ryann would want me to hold her. I liked that. I felt like I was cool then. Birthday parties, halloween party, I even think they came over for Easter last year! I remember when Jared and Damie met with our family in the park for a hangout before they moved. They couldn't stay long but wanted to meet up before the moved to Nebraska. Miss Ryann wanted me to hold her. I didn't know it would be the last time ever. If I had known, I would have held on tight!

May 29th, 2011 would be a tragic day that would end with Miss Ryann leaving this life for good. My heart aches for the parents. I can't imagine losing my daughter or son. There are times I try to imagine just a little of what they are going through and I can't. I'm not sure I would have been as strong as them. I would have lost it! The strength they have shown, their grieving but moving forward, it amazes me and reminds me that even in our darkest times, God is still there. I know it would be hard for anyone to go through this and know that my friends have because of God being with them and also through all the love and support they have received. I wish they were closer so I could just hug them. Instead, I pray for them daily, cry for them often, and look forward to the day when I can give them that hug.

I know that right now, Ryann is in heaven being hugged and kissed by our amazing and loving God. I know Ryann is no longer suffering and that she is at peace. But I know that while it's somewhat comforting, it doesnt replace the whole in her parents hearts. I also know that God is holding her parents tightly, especially today, on her birthday. Because he knows they are hurting and he's reminding them that he's right there hurting with them, crying with them, and holding them in a huge bear hug. Today will be a hard day. God Bless you Jared and Damie. I will be sending extra prayers for you today!

We love and miss you Ryann! Happy 2nd Birthday little one!