Fancy's Not My Name

Bonus : The Letter

My dearest Dottie,

It pains me to tell you this, but I've finally let my illness take me. It had only been a matter of time, but I want you to know I'm so proud of you.

From the moment I found out I was pregnant with you, my life finally had meaning. When you were born there were no words to describe how happy you made me. There still aren't. The first time you smiled it was like the very sun was shining through you. Your laughter was like air, and your infant babbling sweeter than sugar itself. You were the definition of love.

As you grew, your light only got brighter. You were kind, and so so loving. Even when everything went wrong you stayed strong. You kept us all together. And when Tommy came along you didn't question anything, you loved him wholeheartedly without hesitation. I wish he could've had more time with you, to get to know the brilliant woman his older sister is.

I'm so proud of everything you've become, my sweet little girl. You were the light of my life, my reason for living. You were my heart. It saddens me that I won't be there to see you grow all the way in person. To see you get married, to meet my grandchildren. Please don't mourn me forever. Don't think back on me in sadness. I want you to remember me with joy, to celebrate our time together. That is how I want to be remembered, how I want to live on.

Be happy, my darling. That is my final wish. For you to live your life the way you've always wanted, and to love as only you can. Know that though you can't see me, I will always be there. Watching over you, guiding you. And know that I am in a better place now. I am no longer in pain. I will love you always.

With love forever, Mom.