The day came and went as fast as I hoped. The first Christmas without Rehtaeh. She should be here with me, with us. She should be opening her gifts and watching as we opened the gifts she thoughtfully gave.

I didn’t get through the day without tears. I kissed her butterfly lamp and headed out to a cab Christmas morning. We flew away this year. Starting something new or just getting away. It was good to keep busy, to just get the day behind me.

I doubt I’d be where I am, able to cope at all, without the help and support of many great people. To all of you Merry Christmas. I hope you all had a truly blessed day.