It has been just over a month since the passing of my darling girl and the void she has left in my heart is ever present. My eyes still look for her every time I walk upstairs, expecting to see her prancing towards me. But the biggest reminder of her loss is when I go to sleep at night… as I wait for the little weight of her body to jump onto me and find a comfortable position… but it never comes.

When the sun is warm and I feel it come through the windows, when I see a patch of sunlight lighting up a corner of the floor, I am reminded of her and wish she were here to enjoy it.

I am thankful for her 19 years with me. I am thankful for the love and comfort, and joy she brought to our lives. I am thankful that I could be with her to the very end, and hold her and tell her how loved and treasured and cared for she has always been. I am thankful that her final moments were peaceful, sitting with me in our favourite sweater in the warm sunlight in her favourite place of our home. On a grey day when the sun showed no sign of coming out — during her final resting moments, the clouds parted, and she left this world with the sun on her face…. I will miss you forever, Nini…Chanel.

Remembering a gentle soul whose love, warmth, and presence will be cherished always.