I have sent letters to some of her cousins and friends and asked them to jot down some of the memories that they had of Mama. The funny times, and anything else that they wanted to say would be welcomed. I have also asked for a picture of them when they sent the letter back.

I would like some ideas on how to arrange this book. Any suggestion will be welcomed.

Nancy

Just read your post, sorry to hear of your loss. I found a beautiful poem that may be helpful for your scrapbook or just as comfort during the holidays. I have to share it with you. I found it on one of the forums here last year. Hope you like it.

My first Christmas in Heaven
I see the countless Christmas trees
around the world below
With tiny lights, like Heaven's stars,
reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular.
Please wipe away that tear
For I am spending Christmas with
Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs
that people hold so dear
But the sounds of music can't compare
with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you,
the joy their voices bring,
For it is beyond description,
to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me,
I see the pain inside your heart.
But I am not so far away,
We really aren't apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones,
You know I hold you dear.
and be glad I'm spending Christmas
With Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift,
from my heavenly home above.
I sent you each a memory
of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious
than pure gold.
It was always most important
in the sories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other.
as my Father said to do.
For I can't count the blessing or love
he has for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and
wipe away that tear.
Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

This poem was written by a 13 year old boy who died of a brain tumor that he had battled for four years. He died on December 14, 1997. He gave this to his mom before he died. His name was Ben.

I have a story about this poem. If you will indulge me just a minute, I would love to share it with you.

My mother lived just a few miles from me all of my married life. (17 years). May, a year ago she moved into a assisted living apartment close to my big sister. About an hour away from me. Because I didn’t get to see her near as much. I could call her once a day and the rest of the time we would converse over the computer. Mama didn’t have one but my brother-in-law would give her messages, stories, and whatever that I would send to him.

I had sent her this poem when I saw it on the forum last year. She kept it. I found it in her knitting bag (she loved to knit) a few months after she passed away. Of all of the stories I sent to her this was the one that she kept. I feel like she knew, even though we didn’t.

Anyway, thanks for reminding me about it, you can bet that it will go in the scrapbook.

Thanks again and any other suggestions would be much appreciated. I want this scrapbook to be very special not only for my sister but all of our boys. My sister has two and I have one. No girls.

Nancy
In Alabama