Dear Ellie...

Dear Ellie,

This morning you sprouted wings. What's it like being an angel? I'm sure you are the prettiest around. Today I went over to your house and we spent time looking at beautiful pictures of you and Grace from when you were little, and some more recent ones too. We talked with your grandmother who told us that your mommy and daddy were at the funeral home picking out a casket for your earthly body. I know you aren't in that body anymore but it was where you lived for the past 8 years, and I can assure you they are going to choose a beautiful final resting place for the body you called home. But now, that doesn't even matter to you...how's your 19 bedroom mansion on the beach, Ellie? That sounds wonderful, like someplace I'd like to take a vacation. Ellie, you've only been in Heaven for a few hours but I miss you already. I know your mom and dad miss you too, and Gracie misses you a lot. What are you doing in Heaven right now, Ellie? Do you have that pet pig you always wanted? I'm sure the beach is nice up there, Ells. As much as we all want you here with us, Ellie, I am so happy for you - because you are cancer-free in God's name! You've had cancer for almost 2 years now, it must be a wonderful feeling to be healthy Ellie again! God will take good care of you forever. Now you're a beautiful angel, Ellie. Please watch over all of us down here on earth. Put a special word in with the Big Man for me, okay?! :) But more importantly and most especially, watch over your twin sister. I know you will. You care for her a lot. She really misses you, Ellie. On Friday I will go to your church and see your earthly body, all prepared beautifully. It's going to be sad to see your body without the Ellie we know and love inside, I know, but I am telling myself to REJOICE because you are in Heaven now! That body is just that...a body. You are in Heaven! One last thing; I love you Ellie. This past year Holly and I have spent doing a lot of awesome things for you and Grace. I know you liked them and that gives me a smile to know that I helped to make some of your last days better than they would've been. No matter how much I miss you, Ellie, I know that you are still here with me in my heart. And you'll be there forever. You were a special girl, and your strength, bravery, hope and will to live up until your last breath was remarkable. I love you and I miss you, Ellie Shoal.

Love you forever,

Lindsay