I had the absolute honor and privilege to make something for my very very best friend in memory of someone very dear to her she lost. Kayla and Jessica were childhood best friends. They lived down the street from eachother and they were little girls together. And they remained close over the years until the day she passed away in 2014. I know how hard this has been on Kayla. She is someone who has experienced so much loss in her life, more than anyone should at our age- we’re not even 30 yet. And still remains stronger than I think she even knows. (I love you Kayla). Jessica’s mom Esther reached out to me to make Kayla a bear from Jess’ first communion dress and I thought Christmas would be the perfect time for her to get it. I was able to size down my usual pattern so I can make both of them one from it ❤️ she sent along her handwriting & a bracelet Kayla gifted to Jess for one of her birthdays to use for the bear. Usually when I make bears, it’s for people I don’t know in memory of people I never met. So while I feel emotions making them, I am able to detach myself a bit to get the job done for the family. This bear was different. Making one for my best friend in memory of someone I knew and spent time with, and was close to her, helps me to better understand the importance and symbolism of these keepsakes. 🥹
#memorybear #keepsake #grief #griefjourney #griefandloss #loveyou