I'm generally not one to wear my heart on my sleeve, nor do I express my emotions in a public manner. However, I was overcome with many emotions when I woke up this morning. Today marks 6 months that Kate left our arms. I think back to that morning on March 25 and the many thoughts and feelings I had. Life seemed, somewhat, normal to us. I remember thinking how very blessed we were to have Kate out of the hospital and at home with us. Although she was technologically dependent, Bryan and I were determined to help Kate live as "normal" a life as possible. Life was good. We had a beautiful daughter who brought us so much joy and happiness, who made our lives complete and a baby girl on the way. Kate required 24-hour care. It could be tiresome, stressful and emotional at times, but I would never change a thing. I feel that true happiness comes from serving the ones your love. How grateful I am that I spent almost every waking hour with Kate. Did I ever think when I woke up that beautiful Spring morning that our lives would take a different route. Kate endured so much in her short little life. She was sick and struggled in many aspects. Some may say that it is a blessing for her to be freed from her physical pain. However, that doesn't change the fact that we miss our baby girl.
This past Saturday, Kate's headstone was set. It is perfect. I couldn't be more happy with the way it turned out. It was a bitter sweet day, though. We were excited to have it here to actually have a monument to visit, but sad because I feel like it's the final step of this whole process.
We chose to use a picture from her blessing day. I love the little look on her face.
One of my favorite songs I would sing to Kate was You Are My Sunshine, so we thought it was appropriate to have the words on the back side of her headstone.
Dear Sweet Kate....
Who would have ever thought that one little girl could teach us so much. You were loved.....loved beyond measures. You were beautiful. No one could resist playing with those beautiful brown curls....even though you hated it when people would play with your hair. You were strong. You were brave. You were a teacher. Thank you for teaching us patience, charity, humility, faith and unconditional love. You made your mommy and daddy so happy and made us better people. Thank you for allowing us to learn from your example. You had so many friends who loved you and prayed for you. You are missed.....missed more than you will know.
We love you sweet Kater Bugs.
This is the last picture we have of Kate taken on Easter just 2 days before she passed away. I think she looks so beautiful in her little Easter dress.
We loved spending summer nights on Grandpa Roper's farm. Mia especially loved seeing the horses. There were a few colts born this summer, so it was fun to see them.
