From
the moment I walked into their home, I loved this family.
Karen treated me like an
old friend and I felt welcome immediately. The house was a whirl of happy
activity. Her children and family were around getting ready for a
birthday party for two of her daughters. Kiara was turning five and
Valentina was turning one.
I was so impressed with the
creativity and thought that Karen had put into all the decorating and details.
So many DIY projects and much thought and love had gone into everything.
The ruffle cakes I brought looked perfectly at home next to an amazing
candy display. The outside patio beckoned me with bright colors and
joyful decorations.
Valentina, turning one, was in her tutu looking sweet and lovely
for the party.
And Kiara, celebrating her fifth birthday, melted my heart instantly.
She was sitting by a window and saw me come in with the cake. Her
eyes lit up. Kiara's siblings were so helpful. I noticed the
family pictures hanging in the main room and I could feel the love that was
there.
Later,
I watched as Kiara got her hair done, not her favorite part, but the patient
working of a loved ones hands arranged her sweet curls into lovely pony tails.
I
left with a smile on my face and joy in my heart.
I didn't know... that it
would be Kiara's last birthday. I recently heard the heart breaking news
that Kiara passed away just a week later.
I didn't know that my cake
would be part of the last celebration her family would have together with her.
What an honor and privilege
to have been a part, even a small one, for her day. What a beautiful
party to celebrate this beautiful child.
...What a beautiful memory.
Even though her departure
was unexpected, I know that Karen and her family would want you to know that
they are so thankful for each day that Kiara was in their lives.
Frosted offers our
sincerest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow for their loss.
I will never see
buttercream ruffles again without thinking about Kiara.
So, with the
Gilchrist family's permission, our buttercream ruffle cake will be called the Kiara cake in their daughter's honor.
*Pictures courtesy of the Gilchrist family.
I want to say to the
Gilchrist family and to all of our customers,
It is a blessing and a
privilege to know you. Thank you for allowing Frosted to be a part of
your lives.
- Julie
