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Dear Jim,

Today you would have been forty-two years old.

I'm so glad we were able to throw you a surprise 40th birthday party when we lived in Michigan.  Last year, Marley and I went out to dinner with friends to remember your birthday.  I don't know what we'll do this year, but I will be thinking about you and remembering with Marley about you today, for sure!

You are still missed every day by your family and friends...

Marley misses the fun the two of you used to have together.  She often asks me to tell her stories about funny things you used to do. 

She adds what she can remember.

We miss you at holidays and birthdays.

She's growing up so fast, and I can't help but think about how much fun you would be having with her now- riding bikes, talking, playing, and just hanging out.

I miss you terribly when we do something new, or when she impresses me with all the things she's learning. 

You would be so proud of your little girl!

We've kept up traditions that we started with you, like decorating pumpkins...

2010

2011

We continue to celebrate holidays, and though it can be painful without you,

I work really hard to make each one memorable for her, just like you would have wanted...

Christmas 2011

We used to pose for family pictures as a three-some

...and now it's just the two of us.

Things are different these days. 

The fact that you're not here is never far from my mind.

The other day, Marley was pretending to talk to you while we were driving somewhere.

"Daddy, can I come up to Heaven with you?  I CAN?!?

And will you give me hugs and kisses when I get there? You WILL?? 

Oh, thank you, Daddy!

And can we swing? Great!

And I will bring my stuffed animals with me so we can play.

Mama, he says you can come too!"

We miss your quiet comfort and presence.

We miss the way we felt protected by you.

We miss your laugh and your hugs.

We miss your biscuits and gravy too.

Happy birthday, Sugar.

We still love you!

*Professional photos taken by Julie Abston.