Dear Olivia,There are many things that we see in life through our own individualized tunnel vision. We don't always realize how or when we may find ourselves looking at that space or point in time again, but from a different angel of the tunnel. I found myself in that place today. That window on the … Continue reading Top Left Corner
Olivia Donna Gelardin was exquisite. At almost 5 years old, Livy, as we called her, was delighted to watch sunlight reflect off the window, feel the sand run through her fingers in her garden, splash soapy water in the bath tub with her brother. She was our first, our dream-come-true baby, our patient teacher. Livy … Continue reading My Husband, Eli’s Post…(w/special thanks to Yomi Wrong for her edits)
Dear Livy, I dropped by your school this week. Schools out for summer, but I heard that your tree was planted. It's beautiful. The Autumn Maple is perfect for the preschool playground. It's not very big, but years from now other children, including your brother, will benefits from the shade it brings. I call it … Continue reading June 30: Half a Year
Dear Olivia, Your brother and I have a nightly ritual. Before we go to bed we give your urn a kiss and tell you how much we miss you. Lately, your brother has also been adding, "I hope she comes out of that box soon. I really miss her." I've been trying to imagine what … Continue reading Doing The Right Thing
Dear Livy, It's been a day...and it's not even close to over. Sage's first IEP meeting is this afternoon. It's been difficult to focus on all the moving pieces, yet there are a lot less parts compared to what went into your first meeting. You and your brother are both unique, but in very different … Continue reading Reminding Myself
Dear Olivia, The end of the school year is approaching and your friends are getting ready to transition to kindergarten. I feel like I'm approaching the true goodbye time to your school team. It's been nice having your classroom things intact. It's made us all feel like part of you is still with the class. … Continue reading Bye, Bye Preschool
Dear Olivia, The brain is a very powerful organ. I know this because of you. If it weren't for the seizure that took control of your brain you'd still be here. Sometimes I tell myself that your at camp or somewhere special on a temporary basis, but that eventually you're coming home. It's these thoughts … Continue reading Thin Pink Yarn
Dear Livy, May 13, 2012 was one of the happiest most treasured days of my life. It was my first Mother's Day and you made it possible. I was 34 years old and felt like the luckiest mom on the planet. I celebrated my day with you, Daddy, Great Uncle Ed and Uncle Chaddy. It … Continue reading Always Your Momma
Dear Livy, I haven't been able to take a breath in nearly a week! Sage got sick, I got sick, daddy got sick and then all hell broke loose. Its a good thing you didn't get sick too. Barfing was never your thing, but I wish more than ever you were here. I need you … Continue reading You Remind Me
Dear Olivia, A friend of mine told me that I should write the letters I want to write and say what I need to say. That I should get it out of my system, all of it! Then rip it up and throw it away. I did it and I didn't think it would make … Continue reading Letters To Nowhere
