This was probably the first time after Eleanor had passed that I felt happiness in knowing new people and being social. Nothing felt forced. We were all allowed to smile and feel some joy without the need of adding a caveat or disclaimer that we were still profoundly sad about our losses.

Grief doesn’t leave, it changes form. Some days it’s a weight, and other days it’s a whisper. Losing two sons has taught us more about love than we ever wanted to know. It’s taught us to listen to silence, to be gentle with one another, and to find beauty in endurance.

One thing that I've learned about being a mother is how beautiful and deep our love for our kids can be. I have only spent a few minutes with my son and have no idea of what sort of teenager he would have been by now - but I know I love him and I miss him.

Grief is a journey. You can’t ignore it. It will continue reminding you it is there, even if you look away. The weeds will spread until you have no choice but to garden in the cold rain. My love for Bree is not only light and love, as much as I wish it were.

Hudson’s short life has changed us in many ways. I’m a better wife, mother and friend because of him. We have found several ways to honor Hudson in our everyday lives.

I would have never anticipated the connection that I have with my daughter, Ava, even after her death. I get to talk to her whenever I want, I get to take her everywhere with me.

I’m learning that life is very short and to just live and be happy, over this last year I’ve struggled so much and felt so alone, all I wanted was to talk about my daughter but found that it was making people feel uncomfortable and my feelings were just pushed down.