Sunday, May 17, 2009

The 13th, Revisited




What do you do on a birthday, when the birthday girl isn't there? So many people have called, good heartedly, in love, and have asked the question that I love to hear but hate to answer: How was your day on Wednesday?
I need to know that you want to know, but I still never know what to say... It was the most beautiful spring day, there were birds and the scent of lilacs hung heavy in our yard. We ate amazing meals full of incredible amounts of comfort calories, we spent almost the whole day outside, we loved each other so much all day long. We laughed together, we made each other cry, we held hands, we planted beautiful things. We collected wildlife, marvelled in the magic of life, and let it go. We baked an amazing dessert, sang to our sister, and then ate without her.
After the children went to bed, I unpacked about 400 sympathy cards from my bedroom storage closet, popped in Charlotte's birth music, and let it all go. A beautiful, appropriate, homing ending to a day that was, for all intents and purposes, as good as could be expected.

(love that line)



















Wouldn't presents and a party have been more fun?






sigh.








9 comments:

Inanna said...

Yeah... presents and a party would have been infinitely better, mama.

Much love to you and yours.

Sara said...

The day looks and sounds lovely. It would be absolutely delightful if not for what should be.

Taking Heart said...

Seems to me your day was as it should be for a family who loves someone who is gone. Your photos were beautiful!

Gina said...

What a beautiful tribute.

Hope's Mama said...

You're amazing Carol. You find beauty and love in everything. I wish I could have been there. If for nothing else, but some of that dessert!

kris said...

Thank you for sharing your day. Aoife looks more and more like you! What a celebration of Charlotte and all she has brought into your life.

Rika said...

Wow, you are amazing....I am in awe all the time. Did you make the shirt for Liam? beautiful. I loved seeing Charlotte's "spot" in the woods.
xo

Ya Chun said...

as good as could be...

Dalene said...

Yes, as good as can be expected. Thanks for sharing the lovely pictures.