your home

Dear Rachel,

Today my heart feels heavy in a new kind of way. I wasn’t there when your house — your home — was packed up and rearranged. I wasn’t there when the last pieces of you were gently wrapped, folded, or placed in boxes. But I’ve felt every bit of it from a distance. I was thinking about how excited you were when you bought this house and how much you loved it.  

Your home was more than just a house. It was where your babies took their first steps, where you stayed up late helping with homework, and where you laughed, cried, and made the every day feel meaningful. It was you — through and through.

And now, life has changed again. He’s moved on. He’s married someone new. He still loves you so much and every day he wishes you back.  And as hard as that is to accept, I need you to know — she’s wonderful.

She is kind. She treats your children with love and patience. She doesn’t try to replace you, because she couldn’t — no one ever could. But she shows up for them. She holds space for their memories, and she honors you in her own quiet way. I see that, and I'm thankful. I think you would be too.

Still, it hurts — letting go of what was, and accepting what is. It’s not what any of us wanted. But life moves forward, even when we’re still grieving, still holding onto pieces of the past.

I hope somehow you know your babies are safe. They are still surrounded by love, even if it looks different now. You did such an incredible job raising them — they are strong, respectful, and full of the same kind of love you gave so freely. You would be proud, Rachel. So proud.

No matter what changes around them, they will always carry you. So will I.

I miss you more than words can express.

I love you always.

**Your sister,**

Terri