What is Nathan’s Tree?

On June 10, 2015, our fifth baby was born still at 19 weeks gestation. We named him Nathan, which means “God has given.” I had a desire to do something for my baby in his memory and honor. We had just moved into a new home, and it was the first time we had our own yard. I did not have a green thumb at the time, but I loved the idea of planting a tree for him.

We picked out a Greenspire Linden tree, because it blooms yellow flowers in June, which would be right over his birthday. Another bonus was this tree has heart-shaped leaves. We referred to it as “Nathan’s Tree” and it became a connection to my baby as I watched it grow, in place of watching him grow on earth. It gave me something to take care of, in place of taking care of my baby on earth. Nathan’s Tree was the beginning of healing from his loss and gave me so much hope.