Dear Friends:
The 4th of July. A day of fireworks, picnics and just having fun. Yet this whole week has been nothing but heart wrenching for us. Last 4th of July Amanda finally was discharged from the hospital and we remember she wanted to be home to see the fireworks. Although Amanda was feeling so bad and we couldn't have her out, she was determined to see the fireworks, so we took her to my parents condo and together as a family we watched. We knew in our hearts that Amanda wasn't doing great and that she would have to return to the hospital but for that moment we were so happy to be able to have her home and together our family saw the fireworks through Amanda and Samantha's eyes sitting side by side.
This holiday was Amanda's last spent home with us. Although it is one of our happy memories having her home, it also becomes one of our last of Amanda and Samantha together as sisters, where for that 20 minute show they smiled. They say that the holidays are the worst and we can definitely agree with that. As more time passes it just doesn't seem to mend the pain in our hearts. If anything it just feels stronger. This year when we look up and watch the beautiful fireworks light up the sky we will see our Amanda's smile.
Love
The Buddemeyer Family