Letter, 2003

Dear Mom and Dad,

I know it's been a while since I last wrote. Don't worry; all is fine here. It's just been a while since we talked. A lot has happened since you were here and I miss you both very much.

The last letter that I wrote was about the man I had fallen in love with. You both met him and Dad even walked me down the aisle on my wedding day. Wish you could have been there, Mom. I even wore that dress we liked.

Paul and I are coming up on twelve years together. We will have been married for eight. Our love has grown and changed through the rough times. He even surprises me with flowers on occasions. Last week, on a particularly challenging day, he asked the flower delivery person to send a gallon of - much needed - milk as well. I cried as she gave it to me. It amazes me that we're still so strong after the storms we have weathered. He held me up for so many things. Your funerals, throughout the pregnancies and births of our children, colic… He is such a special guy. I'm so blessed that I can trust someone so much, that I feel this way in my heart. After so long, I still can't describe it. I love him so much.

Our children are healthy, strong and loved immeasurably. Aimee and Mandy are growing bigger every day. They are no longer those tiny babies you last held, Dad. They are sweet, busy, happy girls. Kate is becoming a special girl too. She's so generous and kind. She loves her little sisters and, for the most part, they play really well together. She felt terribly guilty for playing with her friends yesterday and not with her sisters. I assured her that their feelings were not hurt.

I've dusted off the sewing machine, Mom. There's hardly a day that it's not used now. I love making the girls' clothes and teddy bears. I've also taken up a new passion, quilting. You would love it too. I try to use your "stash" of fabrics in them too. I used a pretty pink knit on your new granddaughter, Julia's quilt.

I wish you could be here. Kate talks about you so often. She remembers glimpses of you, Dad. She sees Mom as her fairy-godmother. They know who you are with pictures and memories we share. You would love being surrounded by them, telling stories and making dresses. They are so full of energy and love. Even on the worst, demanding days, I know they are a miracle. I love my little family. We are blessed. Wish you were here…

Love you both,