Dear Arriela

This is for Arriela- letters from your family.

The last time we saw you was November 1, 2024. While we explained what was happening and said what we needed to say, it was clear that you did not entirely understand what it all meant.

While we hope this is a temporary separation, life has unfolded in a way we didn’t foresee.

No matter what you hear, please know this: you are deeply loved and missed daily. We always think of you and will always be a part of our lives.

This space is for sharing our thoughts, wishes, and memories of you as we look forward to the day we’re reunited. Until then, we’ll be here, celebrating and holding you close.

Your family.

Notes for Arriela

  • Happy New Year, Ari!

    Your dad and Ashley had their 3rd-anniversary last week, and I was looking at those pictures from when you and all three were together that day. By now, you will be back at school or in the next couple of days. Last night, I dreamed that you visited Grandpa and me. You told your mom Read more

  • Merry Christmas

    Of course, yesterday was Christmas, and we missed you! We know we may not have been able to see you anyway – if you would have been with your mom, but still. We would have loved to get you some things from your Amazon Wish List, plants, or both. Have you ever used your Kiln Read more

  • Christmas Cookie Class

    The cake Decorating store where we made Easter Cupcakes last spring is offering a kid’s Christmas Cookie Decorating class on December 21. I know we would have had so much fun doing that together. I still remember you saying at the last class, “This is the most impressive thing I have ever made.” You have Read more

  • Public vs Private

    I was explaining to Nana Pamma how this blog/website works. While part of this is indeed private letters to you, we are making these posts public because if you ever do a search for your name, you can find these posts from us. We all want you to know that we think of you often Read more

  • Christmas Tree is Up Before Thanksgiving

    November 26, 2024: Grandpa Ted put up the tree today – two days before Thanksgiving. It seems early this year since Thanksgiving is so “late,” but we are less than a month away from Christmas. He had to help me decorate since you were not here to help me this time. I didn’t even take Read more

  • Dear Arriela

    Dear Arriela. I said I would write you letters and save them so you could read them when I see you again. Instead of putting these on paper, I am putting them here so you may see them sooner. Of course, right now, thing are still surreal and I still wonder how much of this Read more