Dear Ashley

Dear Ashley,

 I first want to let you know that finding your unexpected gift this year was an experience I will never forget...

It was a very special kind of "prize" when I stumbled upon it, because I knew, this moment was going to be for you. 

 It was a precious journey for me.

Thank you!

I walked into a beautiful old church in Paris.

I was overwhelmed with emotion.

I could not help but think of my Dad. 

 Then,

I thought of your brother in pure silence under amazing huge grey arched ceilings and stone walls. The sun showered in like heaven through old wavy glass stained glass windows.

I walked slowly until I found Saint Christopher,

 for you.

He stood on the left side, on a small alter all his own, holding a child in his arms. 

Candles were burning for loved ones... 

 I lit one for your brother.  I lit one for my Dad. 

 It was warm.  It was peaceful. 

 There was a huge brilliant presence of being HOME.

I felt so small.

My heart felt bigger than words I can share with you.  

I burned a Sainte Therese candle for your brother...

I knelt down and said a prayer. 

 I asked Saint Christopher to hold him close for you, always to keep him warm, happy and safe.    

Our candles burned all night long...

I went back the next morning to bring yours home to you, though now empty you can add a candle to burn again.

Always remember....

Your brother is Here.  He is There.  He is Everywhere. 

I promise you he is!

At the flea market in Nice I found your vintage religious souvenir.

 statue de sel 

A salt statue of Sainte Therese to sit by your candle.

Big Hugs

&

All my love to you sweet Ashley, stay strong.

Please send me your address to

Frenchbluue@cox.net

Janet

Ashleys comment: 

I entered this amazing contest last year and will do so again today, although my desired treasure has yet to change. I have a little vignette in my home dedicated in memory of my brother whom I lost in November of '09', he was only 27 and I still can't get the grasp of my on-going life without him. If I am so lucky to win, I would love a religious figure of sorts, something old, something that tells a story...I am so thankful to enter this contest....Good luck to all who enter!!

Xoxoxo~Ashley

Ashley just sent me over pictures of her brother.

Jonathan William Casedy

Jonny

Jonny with his son...

&

Jonny fishing...

both were his Heaven on Earth.

fin

XO