Melanie is 8 years old this year. I always come back to this place on her birthday. To feel the glow and grief. I remember those raw first days when my heart literally felt like it would stop at any moment. The pain of losing her was too great. Now I sit on my couch and think of the days I had with her. The movements and how she responded to her dad. Thinks look different this year, I am separated from my husband and living on my own. I know I made the right choice but it still hurts, he is the only one who gets it. So I’ll keep sitting on my couch, looking at pictures of my little girl, and embracing the silence. It hurts, but there is finally space for other things. A future.

Number 13 is coming up for our lost boy. I, too, return to GITW each year around this time. It helps to know I'm not alone. Love to you.

Remembering Melanie with you, MellyBelly. And Jenny, your lost boy, too. We aren't alone here. Thank goodness.

Happy Birthday to your sweet Melanie.
We are coming up on 7 years this week.

Thinking of you and so hoping that this place provides comfort