We were celebrating Christmas Eve with family when Maya discovered this decades-old doll. It was handmade by my step-dad’s aunt. Maya carried her around most of the day and I couldn’t help but snap some pictures of the two of them. They matched pretty well, to. Didn’t they?
*side note: she is such a little Mommy & I love it!
Camden is six-years-old and growing SO big before my eyes. My little man.
February 3, 2010 - 5:34 pm - Aw, he is such a cutie!!
I have been wanting to write this post for a month now. In the month since the fire, we have been busier than ever (as you can imagine). I have started typing this up many times and it was just taking too long to figure out how to say what I wanted to say. I could write a thousand words and it would not even come close to expressing our gratitude for what you all have done for us. The prayers, the tears, the words of encouragement, the donations… it all means so much to us. We so deeply felt the love that you sent our way. So without trying to say exactly the right thing, I just want to say thank you. You will never know what you have done for us.
The last six weeks have been difficult to say the least. There were moments of just feeling blessed that we weren’t there and moments of just collapsing in tears in the closet because you want to go HOME and not have to constantly be somewhere else. Knowing that you should be able to get in your car and drive only 15 minutes to your house but you CAN’T is a horrible feeling. Even though my kids have been taking it amazingly well, to hear my three-year-old tell me that she misses her teddy is so heart-breaking for a parent. Although it has become significantly easier for me to deal with since the the Haiti earthquake. When I think of all of the people who are sleeping on the street, and even worse, have lost their loved ones… it really puts our situation into perspective.
It is so bittersweet for me, but I want to share photos that I took the morning of the fire, Christmas morning… and then a few after photos.
The first four are actually from Christmas Eve
Christmas morning:
(I sized them small than usual because there are a LOT of them)
(I bought the tumbler myself – haha)
This part is so difficult for me. Can’t put it into words.
Before:
After:
(after we removed the piano & books)
We will hopefully be in our new house before February is over. It’s exciting and heartbreaking all at once, but the one thing that we know is that God is with us all the way through.
I’m hoping to blog much more regularly now… and more still once we are in our own place.
xoxo
Laura
February 2, 2010 - 3:29 pm - (((hugs))) I'm speechless, I don't know what to say. This definately brought tears to my eyes.... I knew I shouldn't have read this/looked at the pictures at work. If I could, I'd give you a big hug. You're extremely strong, as is your beautiful family. I look forward to reading your blogs and seeing your pictures, and can't wait to see the new house and new memories. Thank you for sharing these. Nichole
February 2, 2010 - 4:20 pm - Oh, those pictures are so devastating..I'm so sorry for the loss of your home. Best wishes to you and your family!!
February 2, 2010 - 4:47 pm - after looking at these pictures all I am left with are these words..... I AM SO GRATEFUL YOU GUYS WERE NOT HOME. BEYOND GRATEFUL. the before pictures are so beautiful and full of life and happiness... and the after pictures look like something out of a horror movie. it honestly takes my breath away. I hate that this happened to you guys...but I am SO SUPER thankful to still have my friends around. love you guys.
February 2, 2010 - 5:09 pm - OH LAURA!!!! THIS JUST BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES!!!! PRAYING FOR YOU ALL!!, AND THANK YOU FOR SHARING!
February 2, 2010 - 5:31 pm - We love y'all so much! What a month December 2009 was for us. Looking at these pics makes me miss your house so much! After the fire and seeing it i forgot how cute it was! I am so glad that my best friend and her family that we love so much werent home and you are all safe! 2010 the year for the Reauxs & Talberts!!! <3 XOXOXO
February 2, 2010 - 11:09 pm - I'm speechless as well. All I can say is I love you and I love your family. I am so grateful you all are safe and have each other. You are an amazing mom and such a strong woman. You inspire me. God is good :)
February 2, 2010 - 11:24 pm - I love you guys. (((((Hugs)))))
February 3, 2010 - 5:44 pm - Laura I cannot say enough how sorry I am for you and Struck and the kids this definitely brought tears to my eyes but you are a strong person and with your determination and not giving up and being the best mommy to your kids thru all of this is the best thing ever!!! I wish the best to ya'll and I pray for you guys that your new house will be done soon so you can start enjoying it and capturing many more memories!!!!
February 3, 2010 - 5:48 pm - Dear Laura, Thanks for sharing a piece of your heart with us. As usual the photographs you take of your family is confirmation of a sweet, beautiful family. You are still in our prayers. Always your friend, Tot
February 3, 2010 - 11:05 pm - Thank you for sharing this. Very powerful stuff. Can really see the joy and cheerfulness of your family. Look at all those smiles! That's how I would remember it, too if I were you. I'm sure there will be many more wonderful Christmas mornings to replace this one. Didn't you also say that the piano still plays? That's amazing! I hope you guys get settled soon and get back to normal!
Christmas morning
More tomorrow.
January 27, 2010 - 10:46 am - I know you cherish these last pictures from your home. You will be in a new home soon and will make many more memories. I'm sure you thank God every day that you still have your whole family to make those memories with.
January 28, 2010 - 2:07 pm - what a beautiful memory!! good luck with everything in the future!
January 30, 2010 - 1:07 pm - oh it just breaks my heart! i am glad that you can remember it with a smile, but i wish for you and your kids that you could be back there. you will build a new beautiful home and fill it with memories!
February 2, 2010 - 2:29 pm - I teared up a little seeing this picture. At least you have the happy memories of the morning (and I lovethe kids stockings!).
February 2, 2010 - 2:37 pm - Laura, I'm so glad I met you on the field trip... I hope to get to know you better. Your children are beautiful and I'm so glad you have a happy memory from Christmas morning. On a completely unrelated note, I'm pretty sure that's the exact yellow that's on my living room walls. :)
February 2, 2010 - 2:48 pm - Jodie, I'm considering putting it in our living room in our new home. I looooved that color!
We are receiving an unbelievable number of requests from friends, family and even strangers for a way to donate and help. Here is a button that goes directly to our Paypal account. We honestly can not thank you enough for the outpouring of generosity.
December 26, 2009 - 3:17 am - Praying for you guys!
December 26, 2009 - 4:31 am - I already messaged you on Facebook but we will be calling tomorrow. I have several bags of lightly worn clothes and toys for the kids.
December 26, 2009 - 6:23 am - He will definately pull ya'll through Laura. I am so grateful that it was Christmas and ya'll were at Ms. Pam's. Everything else can be replaced you guys can't be. Hugs and Kisses.
December 26, 2009 - 7:32 am - Are you looking for a new rent home? My landlord has many homes, one will be available in a month. I can put you in touch with him if you'd like. I'm also pulling together some clothes and necessities to help you all out. Let me know if there is anything specific that you need. I am so grateful that none of you were home at the time. Things can be replaced. What's important is that you were all safe. You are in my prayers. I'm here if you need to talk. Love you all, Brandy
December 26, 2009 - 8:45 am - Laura my heart sank when I saw a post on facebook linking to this blog post. Thank God you are all okay. I'm so mad now that I got rid of all of the twins' clothing from when they were babies. I'm going to look around to see if I have anything I can donate.
December 26, 2009 - 9:26 am - ***IN TEARS... i love you guys and I am SOOOOO sorry this has happened.. i just have to know that something amazing is going to have to come out of this, we just can't see it at the moment.
December 26, 2009 - 9:33 am - I am so sorry for you guys! But thank the Lord that no one was home. Please let us know if you need anything.
December 26, 2009 - 9:58 am - Im sorry to hear about such a horrible thing....i have 2 big bags of adult clothes and a tv your welcome to....contact me 3373567667....
December 26, 2009 - 10:19 am - Having been through 2 floods.. the best advice I can give you is to really take a step back and breathe before getting involved with salvaging. I know it's tempting to just want to not deal with it and THROW everything, hoping for a fresh new start. But just take your time.. it will all come through. You have given so generously of yourself and time this past week, God is already at work with your family. Know that He would never give you a battle He was hands-down sure you couldn't win. This will make you all so much stronger. We love you guys.
December 26, 2009 - 10:28 am - Jeromy, Laura and Grandpeeps .... we love you more than words can express and are so thankful that you are all safe! And of course you already know that our home is your home.
December 26, 2009 - 10:43 am - Saw this on terry broussards site and wish u guys the best!
December 26, 2009 - 10:55 am - what size are you? i have an unbelievable amount of clothes in womens xs/s that you can have? also kids clothes, what are the ages...?
December 26, 2009 - 12:07 pm - All I can say is that I am so sorry to hear what has happened and I am so glad to hear that you guys are safe. Prayers are going your way for you and your family. Please let me know if there is anything I can do, I am going thru. my Daughters clothes today and would love to know what size you and Jeromy wear. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
December 26, 2009 - 12:31 pm - We're so sorry about what happened. We watched it last night and it was so sad to see. We're here if yall need anything. Just let us know and your family is in our prayers.
December 26, 2009 - 1:29 pm - Praying for you and your family!
December 26, 2009 - 2:17 pm - Laura I'm so sorry what you are going tho wish I had clothes to send you at least but I don't have sizes you need,but I will pray for you I remerber walking though our house after Katrina it's hard you all are in our prayers
December 26, 2009 - 2:25 pm - Oh My gosh, Bless your hearts! You dont know me, but I saw this on a friends facebook. I had a nightmare last night about a house on fire! Its so odd that I dreamed that. I never dream about stuff like that. I am so thankful you are all are safe! Are you going to set up an account so that we photographers can help you? Do you belong to the PPA (professional Photographers of America?) Hang in there and know that there are many out here, who dont even know you who want to help you get your life together. about 10 years ago we had a pipe in our attic burst and it flooded our home while we were on a ski trip. I know its not the same, but to have your home destroyed is horrible. Just remember that all things are replaceable. PEOPLE ARNT. Tell us how we can help!
December 26, 2009 - 2:30 pm - I am SO sorry... so so SO sorry. Hang in there and thinking of you guys
December 26, 2009 - 3:03 pm - Sorry I missed you today when I dropped the check off to your mom. Erin, Nicole & other mlm moms told me what happened this morning. Hope it helps you & your family, Carolyn Gill-Moore
December 26, 2009 - 3:04 pm - my heart goes out to u & your family. we lost our house to fire in 1998. I feel your pain & loss. It's so ironic, we pretty much had the same damage as u did. I am an amateur photographer trying trying to fulfill my passion of photography. You did not mention any info on your camera's & photography supplies. If you have shoots scheduled & in need of a camera, & accessories, i have a Canon Rebel XTI you r more than welcome to borrow until you can get your things together. I can b reached through my email. I will keep you & your family in my prayers, but please the most important thing to have right now is hope. It will get better, it will take time, but with friends, prayers & hope, the victory will prevail for you & your family.
December 26, 2009 - 3:31 pm - Laura my heart is so big for you. I want to offer you to use any of my equipment/camera/lenses/lap top with photoshop....any thing to keep your business going. I will donate my time and do any sessions you have comming up if you can't. You name it and I want to help! Sam
December 26, 2009 - 4:42 pm - Just know that our prayers are with you all. As a former teacher my thoughts went directly to the five year old as a kindergaryener,right? I would like to replace a few of his supplies and a couple of unforms. I'm Paco's (Chris Gary's Mom). Does he need a new booksack and supplies too?
December 26, 2009 - 5:03 pm - Hey there, I saw the post by paperwings and have contacted Jan. I will be dropping off some clothes for the twins and also some size 5-8 girl clothes, sheets, toys book sacks and uniforms that do not fit my two anymore. If you guys need anything else i have tons of stuff that i need to clean out just didnt want to bombard you with stuff. God bless you guys
December 26, 2009 - 5:29 pm - We are sorry for what happened. You and your family are in our prayer. Please let us know if yoy need anything.
December 26, 2009 - 6:21 pm - Laura---I just now read in the news on my computer about your house! I am so incredibly sorry that you are going through this! Ironically, Marcus just came from his mom's house and basically cleaned it out as she is dying of a brain tumor and will never go back there. My garage is full of stuff that I was going to bring to Extra Mile/CUPS---It is now YOURS!! Please let me know how I can get it to you and where to bring it. Perhaps you'd like to go through it first and take what you need....pots, pans, silverware, dishes, a computer (fairly new and hardly used), etc. I also have clothes for the children. Call me 288-9937 TRACY
December 26, 2009 - 6:32 pm - We're so sorry that this is so hard for you guys to go through and for the loss of things that can't be replaced... ...but we are sooooo thankful that our precious kids and grandbunnies are SAFE and SOUND!!! We know that the Lord will supply everything that you need and more and we want you to know that we are here for you.
December 26, 2009 - 6:45 pm - I don't know you personally, but found your blog via a mutual friend's facebook post. I have clothes, toys, books, many things that may help you that I was just about to donate. Please do not hesitate to drop me a note if I can help in any way. - CJ
December 26, 2009 - 7:39 pm - I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy. I can't even bare to read your entire blog as my heart breaks a little with each line. I can't give money but I'm working on finding clothes and whatever else my network of family and friends can spare. God Bless you and your family
December 26, 2009 - 9:43 pm - oh dear, this is such an unexpected and stressing situation, I can't even begin to imagine how you all feel about this. My prayers are with you. I am really glad that you are all safe... and full of love ;) hugs, mariana.
December 26, 2009 - 9:56 pm - Laura. I'm so sorry what you are going though. I have been praying for you. I wish I had some clothes at least to send to you, however my kids sizes that they have outgrown isn't anything you could use in the correct sizes. I know this is a hard time for you. I remerber the 1st time I walked thought my house after Katrina it was very hard felt like someone elses life or some sceen out of a movie. I'm soo sorry. I will keep you in my prayers. If I come across anything I think you can use I will send it your way. I love you girl keep the faith it will get you though anything ! God sometimes puts us though some very hard times but when he closes a door he always opens a window who knows what he has in store for you !
December 26, 2009 - 10:39 pm - Laura, our prayers are with you. We are so sorry to hear what happened. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
December 26, 2009 - 10:44 pm - I am usually very selective of who/what I give my donations to ... But, I did not hesitate to click on that Donate button. I wish you and your family warmth and peace of mind at this difficult time. My family are praying for you.
December 26, 2009 - 10:44 pm - I am so sorry to hear about your home. I can't imagine. I have 4 bags of clothes, I am a little round, so they are sizes 14-16 but all good clothes. You are welcome to have them if you want them. I live in Metairie, so please let me know where you are and how I can get them to you. I also have two girls, ages 9 and 12, so please let me know your childrens ages so we can help.
December 27, 2009 - 12:38 am - omg...laura, i am so very sorry! ;( I am here if you need anything! Please let me know if there is anything we can do to help! Please call me as soon as you read this!!!
December 27, 2009 - 1:04 am - Laura I am so sorry to hear what has happened. I will keep you in my prayers and Thank god that you are all safe. I wish you the best of luck. Give those babies hugs and each other and just be thankful. Send out a prayer request for you all
December 27, 2009 - 1:48 am - We are praying for y'all and love y'all so much!!!!
December 27, 2009 - 2:10 am - Praying for you guys! I am so glad yall were not home when the fire started. Stay strong girl... It's our kids that keeps us going in times like these. Hugs.
December 27, 2009 - 2:12 am - I'm so sorry to hear of the loss you have suffered. I hope the outpouring of love from people you haven't even met will remind you of God's love. Blessings of hope and healing to your family... OM
December 27, 2009 - 2:58 am - Wow. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. I sent out a Tweet about your plight and will hopefully be able to send you some financial aid ASAP. *hugs*
December 27, 2009 - 3:28 am - Hi Laura, I've follwed a link from "Walk slowly, Live wildly" to your blog...I know I'm a complete stranger, but I just wanted to say I'm so sorry and am praying for you guys. Stay safe xx
December 27, 2009 - 6:34 pm - Hey Jeromy & Laura - We just wanted to share with you a promise from the LORD: "I will comfort those who mourn in Zion to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified." Isaiah 61:3 We love you guys! Dad & Reyne'
December 27, 2009 - 11:34 pm - Laura I am so sorry to hear this. I can't imagine what you're going through right now. I'm so glad that you've had such wonderful people come to your aid at a time like this. You and your family are in our prayers.
December 28, 2009 - 3:49 pm - Laura~ I am so sorry to hear about what you are going through!! You and your family will be in our prayers. We know what you are through, our family had the same kind of experience on Thanksgiving. We lost over 60% of our house. Just keeping looking up and looking to God for guidance, He will provide all of your needs. (Phil. 4:19) I am so glad to hear everyone is safe and that is the most important thing to focus on.
December 28, 2009 - 5:01 pm - Laura and Struck, long time no speak. I am so sorry to hear about this. I made a donation, I know you can't buy back memories or time but I hope it helps. I wish the best for you both.
December 28, 2009 - 6:23 pm - I am not sure if you need anything else for the kids but if you need boys clothes like 3T or so, please let me know ASAP. I am going through my son's closet and have a bag of stuff to get rid of.
December 28, 2009 - 8:19 pm - oh laura - this is shocking. im so so sorry. thinking of you all and sending prayers your way xx
December 28, 2009 - 11:53 pm - Hello, Laura. I am so sorry to hear about your family's home. I know Jeromy from going to the camp in Abbeville with my cousins (Erica and Ashley Boudreaux.) I brought a carload of clothes and toys to Jeff and Pam's today for you guys. I left an envelope with some money, and a giftcard to Spa Almaz, for you to go get a message, with Jeff when I went. The gift card was given to me from one of my students, but I think you need a message more than me. I was under the impression that you guys were living in New Iberia, but when I talked to Pam today I realized that y'all were like a minute down the road from where I live now. I am hoping that I will get to meet you soon. One of the parents from my class has some diapers for me to bring to you. God is always in control and never gives us more than we can handle!!! Love, Through Christ, Carla Thibodaux Potier
December 29, 2009 - 9:39 am - I don't know you but you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!
December 29, 2009 - 10:47 am - If you need clothes or toys for the kids, please get in touch with me. I have plenty of girls and boys clothes and toys that I can offer to you. Girl size 6x-7 and boys size 3t and some 4t. If you think that this will help out, let me know.
December 29, 2009 - 11:41 am - Dear neighbors, You will all be missed. Will miss watching your precious children playing. Not much action in our neighborhood. Little ones gave us smiles. I just am so thankful that you are all safe. If we can help in any way, we will be there. Take care of the family! He never gives you more than you can handle! 1219 Duhon Rd. Sandy and Pat
December 29, 2009 - 1:38 pm - Mr. & Mrs. Reaux: Coming from a family with 8 of us kids [7 boys and 1 girl], I can relate to what you must be going through after the fire...When I was a baby in Franklin, we had a fire at our house *(my brother was playing with matches).... Today, I'm raising 3 daughters and we have much to be thankful for. I wanted you to know that I've got 2 youth beds, a computer desk, sofa and clothes for you if you need them... If not, then maybe you'll know of someone who does. I wasn't sure of the ages of your kids, but I've got more than enough "stuff" for them to play with. [In today's paper, Greig Gachassin & Becky Matte are also listed as having had a fire and they have 6 kids).. Whatever I can do, please let me know Call 781-7776. Thanks and good luck to you, Matt Angers
December 30, 2009 - 10:31 am - Laura, We are so sorry for your loss. We are also parents of 5 and we have had a huge loss ourselves. But God is great and has helped us in so many ways. Please let us know what you and your family need, we are more than happy to help. We have clothes, a tv, toys, and other things that we would be happy to give. Please don't hesitate our number is 337-281-9328. We are soldiers of God willing and ready to help!! God Bless and you and your family is in our prayers..
December 30, 2009 - 10:33 am - Laura, We are so sorry for your loss. We are also parents of 5 and we have had a huge loss ourselves. But God is great and has helped us in so many ways. Please let us know what you and your family need, we are more than happy to help. We have clothes, a tv, toys,bunk beds and other things that we would be happy to give. Please don't hesitate our number is 337-281-9328. We are soldiers of God willing and ready to help!! God Bless and you and your family is in our prayers..
December 30, 2009 - 12:31 pm - Can anyone offer information on sizes needed/toys for ages?
December 30, 2009 - 5:14 pm - Jeromy & Laura, You don't know me but I do work for your father-in-Law offshore. So very sorry for your loss. I kinda know what your going through as Christmas Eve morning we had a Tornado run throuhg our subdivision and did a lot of damage in the subdivision as well. We were in the house and god what a terrible experience that was. We were spared as were all the others in the subdivision that were hit. We had to go to Church that night to thank the lord for sparing us and our home. Just wanted to share that little bit of info and to hope you guys can find a way to get through this terrible ordeal.
December 31, 2009 - 9:38 pm - My prayers are with your family.
January 2, 2010 - 9:15 am - Laura, This is Ali's dad. I'm so sorry to hear of your lost. My prayers are with you and your family. Mark
January 28, 2010 - 6:40 pm - Good to read that no one was hurt. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take care.
December 26, 2009 - 1:17 pm [...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Heather Solos, Ryan Wilcox. Ryan Wilcox said: A photographer friend of mine had her house burned down today on Christmas no less. Please give if you can http://www.laurareaux.com/?p=444 [...]
December 26, 2009 - 2:06 pm Social comments and analytics for this post... This post was mentioned on Twitter by YLNTPhoto: A photographer friend of mine had her house burned down today on Christmas no less. Please give if you can http://www.laurareaux.com/?p=444...
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