Echoes of You

24

Dear Caitlin,

Today, it rained, and I couldn't help but think about how much you loved dancing in the rain. Those moments were pure magic, filled with joy and laughter. I remember how your eyes would light up at the first sign of raindrops, and you'd grab my hand, pulling me outside with you.

We'd dance without a care in the world, the rain soaking us to the bone, but it never mattered. It was like we were in our own little world, the rest of the world fading away. You had this way of making every moment special, and those rainy day dances were some of my favorite memories with you. The way you would spin and twirl, your laughter ringing out, filled my heart with so much love and happiness.

Sometimes, you'd stop dancing and look at me with that playful glint in your eye, and then you'd start chasing me around, splashing through puddles and laughing. I would let you catch me, just so I could feel your arms around me, holding me tight. And then I'd pick you up and swing you around, your joy contagious, making me forget about everything else. The world was right in those moments, with just you and me.

Mark and Emily were with me when it started raining today. We were in the park, and when the raindrops began to fall, I told them about our rainy day dances. Emily's eyes lit up, and she asked if we could dance in the rain too. It felt like a beautiful way to honor your memory, so we all ran out into the rain, laughing and splashing around.

It wasn't the same without you, but it brought back those cherished memories and a sense of closeness to you. Toby joined in, running around with us, his tail wagging happily. Mark and I chased each other, and I even picked Emily up and swung her around, just like I used to do with you. Her laughter was like a balm to my soul, reminding me that there's still joy and love in the world.

When we got home, soaked to the bone, we made hot chocolate and sat together, sharing stories and memories. Emily asked about more of our rainy day adventures, and I found myself smiling and laughing as I recounted the times we spent dancing and chasing each other. It was healing to talk about you, to keep your spirit alive through our stories.

After everyone had gone to bed, I sat down with my sketchpad and started drawing. I drew a picture of us dancing in the rain, capturing the joy and love we shared in those moments. Toby lay at my feet, his presence a constant source of comfort. As I sketched, I felt a sense of peace, a connection to you that was both comforting and painful.

The nights are still the hardest, Caitlin. The ache of your absence is always there, but having Mark, Emily, and Toby here has made it a bit more bearable. They've brought a sense of life and hope back into my days, and I'm grateful for their support. I miss you every moment, but I'm finding small ways to heal, to keep moving forward.

I love you more than words can say, Caitlin. I hope you can see how much you are loved and remembered, how your spirit continues to inspire me. I'll keep writing to you, sharing my days, my thoughts, my love. Forever in my heart, Caitlin.

Yours always,

 Davin