17.

Happy earthly birthday in heaven, sweet Kyrie!

Typing 17 seems like a strange mistake, imagining little you as a nearly grown you. We see your younger siblings sprout beyond kidhood into teenhood, and it's difficult to comprehend that you'd be leading the pack in height (from the predictions of your 1yo foot and growth charts), in wisdom, in driving and likely, in humor. 

No matter how many years go by, you know that your mom and dad still hold you in every beat of their hearts. This day is a reminder of overwhelming joy that you were, indeed, here and threaded with unshakeable consolation that you are waiting as a tiny saint in our forever home. That's the gift that you give every single year on this day. 

That said, the love is still very much alive. That's what the soul is made for: love. And today we celebrate the day your soul and ours were in the same room, a space filled with love, hope and joy—together. 

Until we see you again, happy 17th, sweet girl!