A year.....

A year since Terri's death. A year since every parent's worst nightmare came true for us. We outlived one of our children and yet we're still here a year later. I don't know if we're sane or OK but we're here. Today we'll celebrate Terri and send her love and best wishes written on balloons that we plan to let loose at dusk. We'll also send some for a girl named Raney with whom Terri corresponded and who lost her battle with non-smoker's lung cancer three months before Terri. She also left behind two young boys. She was in her early thirties and her birthday is July 4th. Raney's mother and I are in touch and she'll be lighting candles for both girls today.

I intended to make this entry upbeat but to be honest I'm mad and sad all over again. Perhaps after today is over, I'll be in a more positive mood. A very positive note, however, is that our family will be together on the beach and we'll pay tribute to Terri who will be watching over us from above.

I do want to thank all of you who have emailed and called and sent cards. It's such an honor to Terri that you remember the anniversary of her death and that you keep her memory alive. You are all loved.

And, of course --
Happy 4th of July !!!