Strange times we live in. Hard days we happen upon. It’s been a year, already, since Liam was born…and it sucks that we weren’t busily planning a birthday party.
Liam came into our lives in person on December 19, 2010 at 0042, weighing in at 8 pounds and 10 ounces. He measured 21.25″ long and arrived in a flurry. That night began a time together that was entirely too short.
We did our part in celebrating his birthday as best we thought. The whole week surrounding the actual day was harder and more surreal than either of us had planned for. We brought Liam flowers and a holiday decoration or two, and enjoyed a nice slice of cake quietly in the evening. We were surrounded by lots of love, and tried to stay on the upbeat side of the equation, although that didn’t always happen. In the morning, we took the opportunity to go up to Children’s Hospital and visit the NICU. Only one of his primaries was on at that moment, although we did see several other folks that we remembered. We brought them a bunch of goodies, as an edible way of letting them know how much we appreciate them and how thankful we are for all of them. There was comfort had in having a purpose to bake, and a direction to say thanks.
There is no combination of words that could ever begin to describe how much we miss Liam, or how much we love him. But we do.
Thank you for all of your love and support over this past year. It has meant a lot to us to know that we are hugged – both in person and electronically – and it has helped us in times that we needed it.
Below is a slideshow of photos of Liam (it’s okay to have some tears if you watch it, we do….but a smile or two of remembrance later is nice too).
The Life of a Little Hippie 
Praying for you all as your reach this milestone and that is to come.
wow……..
What a lovely, touching tribute to Liam, so emotional yet serenly beautiful seeing the love that was palpable….. of particular note are the photos of Liam being watched over, touched, and kissed by the most adorable big brother on the planet….
The gift of your photography and your writing, Oren, have created a legacy for Liam’s remembrance….
With humble thanks for sharing this most tender montage,
Jan Onieal 🙂
Hugs to your parents, please..
It has been difficult to read the previous two Emails, as you have gone through the group sessions. There is no way we can relate to what you are goiing through. Now you have the anniversary of his birth and Christmas coming.
We continue to uphold you in prayer and support.
Thanks for sharing this with us! Hugs and prayers for you and your family.
What a beautiful tribute to precious Liam. Thank you for sharing! We continue to think of you all during this time. One year later and Michael still says, “God Bless the Briese family” during his nightly prayers.