Elizabeth Contreras

December 26th, 1973 – January 16th, 2010

For Elizabeth Contreras

Dear Lisa,

I cannot believe that it’s been over a year since we lost you. We lost you on that awful night, January 16, 2010, the night that changed our lives forever. The kids and I have gone on. As hard as it is sometimes, we know what you would expect from us. And your spirit and love does thrive through the kids. You would be so proud of them. You were a very good teacher and wonderful mother. The older girls help me so much with the younger ones. I don’t know what I would have done without them. I love them so much, they’re a blessing. But of course it’s not the same without you.

Your family has been wonderful as well. Your brother, sisters, and mom have been a big help with the younger kids as well as helping with the older ones. The family has come together to support one another, help each other. I’m really thankful for everyone I have in my life.

I think about you everyday. I really miss you and I love you so much. I wish that I could hold you in my arms again, look into your eyes, give you a kiss. Someday, when it’s my turn to go, I’ll get that chance. But right now, like I promised you, I’ll always be here for the kids, to listen to them, hold them, and sometimes to cry with them. I’m their dad and we’re taking this journey together. That will never change.

I found this quote among your belongings:

“You gotta dance like nobody’s watching
Dream like you will live forever
Live like you’re going to die tomorrow
And love like it’s never going to hurt.”

Okay, Babygirl, we’ll try. We will really try to live like you would have. Love always,

Joseph Contreras