The Missing

There have been a few instances this week where I have looked at Shay and Florence and seen Patrick's absence.

The hubby and children were in the sitting room the other night and Shay and Florence were laughing. I don't remember what they were laughing about, but it was probably nothing. It amazes me how the laughter bounces off each of them. Florence will be laughing at Shay and Shay will be laughing at Florence. They will both find it the funniest thing ever. I love nothing more than hearing their laughter. It is a wonderful sound and I thank God that we are all healthy and happy.

So, the other night they were laughing away with each other. I went into the sitting room and the hubby and I both stood in our respective corners watching them. The joy on their wee faces is lovely. The hubby said, 'imagine that there should be another one in between'. And this is exactly how I feel all the time. Florence is sitting, Shay is walking, and Patrick would be...? I do not know. I never will.

It's lovely and sunny today. There is a frost on the ground. I will take the children for a walk. Shay will be walking and Florence will be on my back. And Patrick will be... He should be one year and seven months old now. Can you imagine? I have a preschooler, a toddler, and a baby. If only I was so lucky to have all three here with me.
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Patrick is the missing one in the family, in the photos, in the days out, in the walks, in the night time routine, in every single thing on each and every day.