On Friday the 24th, we buried Rosie in Naruto, Tokushima.
I still can't quite believe that we have just buried our baby daughter. Just a year ago, we were looking forward to the arrival of our first-born. Then, on December 8th, we were blessed with the arrival of a beautiful little girl, who brought such light into our lives. As anyone reading this knows, Rosie's time with us was short. It is not fair that she was taken away from us so soon. It is not fair that most of my family didn't get a chance to meet her, and to play with her. Sometimes it is difficult not to feel a sense of failure as a parent. We wanted to go back with Rosie to see her relatives in Tokushima, and show off our lovely baby. But instead, the first time we went to Tokushima with Rosie, it was to bury her.
We loved her so much, and she loved us so much, and I still struggle to find sense in what happened...
But she was loved for 8 months. And she loved us for 8 months. Nothing will ever change those facts. Her bones are in Tokushima, but her spirit lives on, with Megumi and I, with our families, with our friends, and with all of you fine people who read this page, and who helped us so much with your support. Anyone who sees a rose, or smells a rose, or buys a rose, and thinks of Rosie, or us, is helping to keep her memory alive.
We'll bounce back. It will not be easy, but Rosie will be with us, willing us on every minute, and picking us up when we are down. Megumi and I are still young(ish!), and still healthy enough to consider adding to our family. Rosie will always be the eldest, but hopefully we will be able to make little sisters and brothers for her.
Posted by Gary at September 27, 2004 12:31 PM