Eerie

   Chris is off on TDY in Virginia this week. The kids and I were going for a walk to look at Christmas lights, when out of nowhere Jace says "Mom, Aria is my sister, and my brother is with Dad in 'ginia". When I asked him for clarification, he repeated the same. So I asked him his brother's name, and he said something quiet and undistinguishable that sounded a little bit like "dragon". "Oh! Your brother's name is dragon?" Chris always takes a toy from each of the kids to go on adventures with him while he's away. He sends back pictures and videos of them doing silly things regularly to keep the kids connected to his trip. This trip he brought a small ninja keychain, and a dragon bath toy.
"No, my brother is with the ninja and dragon, helping keep Daddy safe."
I had chills.
I don't know what I believe about people who pass away looking down on you, but it immediately made me think of my miscarriage, something I never discuss with the kids. Out of nowhere Aria says, "Mom, what happens to me and Jace if you die, and if Daddy dies?" Just light conversation while strolling through Christmas lights...

So here it is:

Aria and Jason,
You are SO loved. You were blessed to be born into a family of people who truly love you, and truly love children. If something happens to me and your dad, you will never lack in love. I have complete faith that you will be well cared for and will live an amazing life. Your father and I have absolutely no intention of leaving you, but life is unpredictable. If something happens to us, here is what you will do:
You will be happy. Honor us by finding joy in everything. Dress up, throw crazy parties. Laugh with your friends, and with strangers. Ignore all stereotypes, and find yourself in every category of people. Immerse yourself into the community: volunteer, explore, expand your horizons. Try new things. Go on roller coasters and hikes, swim with dophins, sky dive. Never lose your sense of adventure, soak in all of the things this amazing world has to offer. Love, like you've never lost. Don't tie up your heart in the hurt of loss. Every thing comes to an end, and living in fear only stunts the beauty of everything around you. My wish for you is to live: Truly. Completely. Freely.