A Tribute

Dear Little One,

You came to us so early, we didn't expect you that soon. I will never forget the joy at your birth - I had a sister! I will never forget dad bringing home your tiny footprints for us all to see. We marveled at one so tiny, yet so complete and so perfect.

It must have been a shock for you to have your watery comfort exchanged for a plastic, beeping home full of wires and tape and needles and lights. But you did so well with it all, and were such an inspiration to those who loved you. I will never forget your bright, shining eyes the first time we saw you! I will never forget the smell of the NICU nor the long hours spent by your bedside.

It is only now, now that I carry two babies who are nearly your size and development, that I can attempt to understand how much you were loved and anticipated before you arrived. I look at our parents with admiration and awe as I relive your life through their eyes. I will never forget how Dad spent his lunch breaks with you. I will never forget the look in Mom's eyes gazing at you through the incubator.

Your life was small in size and time, but never in impact or importance. While it has been nearly 20 years since you were here, I think of you more often than I can say. Your memory has not dimmed with time. You are as vibrant to me now as you were when I knew you. Tears still sting my eyes when I think of your little, beautiful life. I will see you again, someday. I will love the moment we meet in heaven! I can't wait to get to know you.

Anne Rose, July 19, 1989 - August 18, 1989