It's Been A Year

It’s been a year.

It’s been a year since I’ve seen your beautiful, peaceful face.

It’s been a year since I’ve heard your voice.

It’s been a year since I’ve held your hand to assure you that everything will be okay.

It’s been a year since I’ve been able to tell you about my life.

It’s been a year since you left us.

So much has happened.

I know you’ve seen it, but even so.

I graduated. I know that you would have cried happy tears seeing me fulfill that goal!

I started teaching. I wish I could tell you all about it. You always thought I’d be a great teacher!

Thomas got to live in your house. He really appreciated how you managed to take care of him this summer.

Uncle Joe and Aunt Carol died. I’m sure you know why they had to leave us, but it hurt a lot. I’m sure you were happy to see them again…they both loved you so much!

We had our first set of holidays without you. It was almost as tough as I thought it’d be, but we made it.

Thomas asked me to marry him! I hated that I couldn’t tell you about it in person and see your face light up. I know you really loved Thomas. He loves you, too, you know.

I was in a terrible wreck. I don’t know how, but I made it out unscathed. I have a hunch you called in some heavenly favors to get me out. You always do. Thank you!

The boys have all grown another year older. They still ask and talk about you. They miss you, I’m certain.

My sisters and cousins are doing amazing things. I’m so proud of them…I bet you’re even more proud! You taught us well.

People at church still talk about you and how amazing you were. They miss your joyful presence.

Everyone misses you.

Your birthday came and went, but not without us remembering. March 18 will never be just another day on the calendar. It was a tough day, but we made it through. We always manage to. You wouldn’t want us to be sad, anyway.

I’m trying to keep moving forward. I’m trying not to be sad. We all are. It’s been tough for me, I’ll admit.

We’re all living in a new normal, if you can call it that.

I love you so much. I miss you too.

It sure has been a year, huh?

I wonder what I’ve missed with you since we last talked…

I wonder how everyone else is. Did you find your parents, siblings, and Grandpa Rudy alright?

How about Michelle and Keith?

What is it like there? What is the best thing you’ve seen? What is God like?

I’m kind of jealous of you, really.  

If you think about it, say a little prayer for all of us now and then…your prayers were always the best!

I love you, Mimi!

Until next time,

Amanda