Our niece, Christianna, died this week unexpectedly. She was 10 years old. One moment she was playing outside with her sisters, and the next moment she was unresponsive. Her life was so precious and beautiful. And it feels too short.
The last time we saw Christianna was when she came to the hospital to visit Josiah as a newborn. The next day she left for Africa, where she has been with her family until now. Josiah will never get to really know her.
When I became part of Carl's family, Christianna was just a baby, and I always felt a special bond with her. She was easy to connect with...a peaceful, serene spirit. Here's a sweet little picture of her as a toddler. She was so cute and free and fun.
Ella and Collette will miss her, as she has always been very natural and loving with people, including our girls. Christianna could somehow seem to stay centered and Joyful no matter what chaos was going on around her! (She's the top right in this picture, sitting next to Collette.)
I remember her loving roller blading, swimming, ballet, creating crafty things like jewelry, and I had the honor of teaching her piano for a year before she moved to Africa. She and I had fun together at the piano each week, singing, playing and exploring music together. It's hard to imagine her sweet little fingers, that moved so easily around the keys, now still. It's hard to imagine her sweet little voice and giggles now quiet. It's hard to imagine her sweet, special spirit not in our presence.
Oh, Christianna Joy, you precious, beautiful girl. We will miss you so much. You were such a gift.
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