Courtney Hooten Wittenberg

Birthdays have always been a big deal in my family. Today, Edie Jane would’ve turned 15. She would’ve been so very excited to receive her driver’s permit, for it was one of her very favorite things to do around the farm. Today, I kept going back to her 14th bday, spent at her first high school vball practice, followed that evening by Barry taking Sienna and her to Fujiyama, ending with the girls at Karly’s with a care basket after Karly broke her ankle that day. That was Edie, loving big!

Today I read her letter to her senior self, which I am eternally grateful for. As painful as it is to know she will never reach those goals, I’m so very proud of what she stood for. Yes, she had hoped to reach her 1,000 points in basketball and 1,000 assists in volleyball, but most importantly, she asked how were her friends and family, had her relationship with God grown? The more I read from Edie’s writing, the more I realize two things: 1. God isn’t finished with her story and 2. She truly had one of the strongest faiths I know (and 3. Kendra was her idol)

She was so much more than just an athlete. Yes, that was her drive and passion, but one thing kept on repeat these last few days in all the outpouring messages: She had a smile that lit up a room, a huge heart, an encouraging word to all her friends and teammates, but above all else, showed love in everything/to everyone she encountered, and all three girls have left that lasting impact.

Edie- I miss all of your little personality quirks and mannerisms, your laugh, contagious smile, sister Tik Tok dances, and hearing you belt out every lyric to every song, but probably most, your hugs. Grief has forever changed the 5 of us Edie Jane, but today we decided, we are so very fortunate that we got to spend all of your birthdays with you, every single one. A friend told me that we all carry your sunshine and smile into every day, and she can feel you when she’s around us. What a compliment. Thank you for sending your love into this world because it is something that has reached so many people and will live on forever. Happy first heavenly birthday, Edie Jane. Give Karly and Sienna a big squeeze from us. Love you all BIG!!!