It was quite an honor to be invited to the National Share retreat, "Voices of Hope." Share is not only the name of the organization, but also exactly what happened that weekend. We openly shared our common bonds with laughter and with tears, reminiscing about our babies.

There was no hesitation when I was asked to speak about Memory Gardens for one of the sessions. Two of my greatest passions are the love I have for my children and the love I have for gardens. It was wonderful to see the room filled with parents interested in creating a place of peace in honor of their babies.

To help you raise funds for your garden, take a photograph of the future area and adhere onto cardstock to send out as invitations. Now add angel, butterfly, or ladybug stickers to identify the theme of your garden. Inside the card list your babies names, location of their garden, date and time, and a summary of why this get together is being held. Having a gathering on or near the spot of your child's memory garden gives family and friends an opportunity to be involved in its creation. Ask them to donate money or purchase statuary, outdoor ornaments and wind chimes reflecting the theme. Another ideal gift would be a gift certificate to a plant nursery. (I don't recommend asking for actual plants unless you provide them with a landscape plan listing plants needed).

There are magical properties within a memory garden because we have no control over the wildlife inhabitants or the daily changes in climate. Let your love flow and open your heart to the warm breeze blowing across your hands on a cool autumn day. New family traditions can be started in this special place. Yearly photographs, birthdays, balloon releases, a midnight cup of hot cocoa, a Christmas morning letter, a mother's day gift, a picnic area, a bible study, or any occasion you need to spend in your angels garden.

Please feel free to ask additional questions on "Love Talk Blog".

Peace, Love and Hugs from Above

Diana Gardner-Williams
Just a Cloud Away, Inc.