Sunday, October 05, 2008

Happy Birthday, Baby

My niece, Maeve, would have been one-year-old today.



Our hearts are heavy, remembering the special, fleeting gift of her life, which we were so graced to enjoy.

Later today, I will enjoy a birthday remembrance meal with my parents (Brigid and Steve are observing Maeve's birthday in Atlanta - delivering special, homemade cupcakes to the nurses who cared for Maeve at Emory's Sibley Heart Center), including a special "kitty cat cake" my mom had decided on making for Maeve's birthday many, many months ago.

Maeve is not here in the flesh, but I am certain her soul is still with us.

My parents and I are releasing a balloon this afternoon, and attached to it will be messages from them, my youngest sister, Mickie, and myself.

Below is the message I am sending Maeve.

Dear Maevey Bean, I cannot begin to express how much I miss you, but I have plenty of examples of when I think of you and feel your love. I see you when the azure sky is full of puffy clouds. I feel you when the gentle breezes kiss my skin. I smell you on crisp mornings, when the air is full of fresh hope. I see you in sparkling stars and bright sun beams - their radiance is as enduring as your spirit. I smell you in baby pink roses, blossoming for just a fraction of a lifetime and yet a gift to be treasured for eternity. I hear you hiding in the lilt of laughter and I taste you in the salt of my tears. Your spirit, your soul, your love is everywhere, and I will look for the essence of you in everything until the day I see you again. Love, Katy.

There is plenty of information online about Noonan Syndrome, as well as a support group that many families find useful.

*** *** *** ***
I've seen fire and I've seen rain
I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end
I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend
But I always thought that I'd see you again

5 comments:

LMJ said...

Thinking about the "little peanut" today. Prayers and thoughts for all of your family.

The Notorious N.A.T said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Michelle said...

Kate, I just wanted to tell you that I understand completely what you're going through and that you're in my thoughts. I know it's not easy.

Denae said...

Happy Birthday, darling Maeve.

Amy in Ohio said...

I'm thinking of you and your family and sweet baby Maeve. I'm glad she's become a piece of my life and I know she's watching over you all as you go through this tough time.

Love you Kate!