Isaiah Joseph,

I forgot to tell you that one of the kindergarteners asked about my necklace yesterday. It was my necklace with your ashes in it, but considering his age I obviously did not tell him what it really was. I told him it was sand and I bought it online, because he also wanted to know that information. Once I got home, I realized that next time I would rather just say, “my son, Isaiah, made it for me” and leave it at that. By saying that, I’m still including you.

The kids usually ask me how many kids I have at some point during the day or at least at the end of the day when your brothers come in to whatever room I’m subbing in. I always tell them that I have four kids, one girl and three boys, and if asked I give ages and when I do, yours is the age you’d be today.

I think we might put up the Christmas tree tomorrow, maybe even some of the outdoor lights. I said something today about putting lights up outside and Elijah jumped up and was ready to go, so I hope he’s going to step into your shoes as being my helper with the lights.

I miss you more than anything and am still holding out hope for a birthday visit from you. I love you more than anything, baby boy. Goodnight and sweet dreams.