It is the day after the boy's birthday(s).
I was tidying Erin's room while gathering laundry, and found a loose balloon that has been floating around upstairs since Seth's varsity swim banquet six weeks ago. I was about to pop it when I realized it had been written on. I assumed it was a note left from one of Erin's friends; there has been a steady stream of teenage girls through our home in the weeks since her 13th birthday.
Imagine my surprise to read this:
Happy 14th birthday, Duncan!
Words can't describe how much I miss you. I know I never met you, but I still love you with all of my heart. Sometimes I think about what you would have been like but it wouldn't compare to you actually being here. I would have liked you the best if you here.
I know you watch over me every day and I am so thankful for that. Almost every day, I wish you were here. I definitely wish for me to have met you, but I will one day. I can't process that you are 14 years old! Just know that you are missed very very much.
I also hope that your tree in Nashville is growing strong. I am so thankful that our church did that for you. I know that you are missed every day. I still wish that you were here with me, but you are watching me. I know that I keep repeating stuff, but it is because you are loved and missed greatly.
Fly high every day. Fly high. I love you so much! Happy birthday, Duncan!
with joy and love from your younger sister Erin
I mean, you guys. Really? She's mine? I half-created this amazing young woman? Just wow.
