Time continues to fly swiftly by. I still visit that bench, although not quite as often.  Another year has passed without opening that box. Perhaps next year I will have the strength and courage to do so.

Your brother grows and thrives, so vibrantly, he seems to glow from within. At times, I like to think that he carries not only his own brightness, but yours as well. Maybe it is just a reflection, a trick of the light, I can’t help but think of both of you when I catch a certain twinkle in his eye or the sun shines down on his shoulders.

Though we shared only a few precious moments with you in this world, they are some the most precious I hold in my heart. On this day you gave me the gift of motherhood, a gift I will cherish forever. Happy 6th birthday, Mary and Christopher. We love you so.