Life
And Biography
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arlene,
in the short time she was with us, had a great impact on everyone who's
lives she came in contact with. I am using this section of the web page
to dedicate my eternal love and gratitude to the little girl who stole my
heart and taught me a full life's lesson in only six years. I am here today, my heart full of love and memories, and a soul full with grief for the one person in my life who gave me every reason to get up in the morning. I was able to rest easy knowing that whatever kind of day I would have, she would be there later for me to smile at and make all the bad seem to disappear. I need to share her moments of happiness with you. The music she loved, the sports she had a great time watching and playing, and a mommy that would love her forever no matter what. I believe Carlene inspired this Quest so I would have a positive reason to carry on.
At six months old, Carlene and I were alone. Although rough times could possibly be ahead for us, we always had each other. For us, that was enough. With Carlene, everything was a passion; whether it be jumping in puddles on a rainy day, singing and dancing along with her favorite music, or examining bugs with her friend Matt.
I dwell in the memories of her love for the New York Yankees, and even her own love for the sport as she stood in her little league uniform posing for pictures. I revel in the thoughts of us watching our favorite movies. Be it "Old Yeller", "All Dogs Go To Heaven", or "The Sound Of Music", we always seemed to laugh or cry in unison.
At work, everyone looked forward to her visits. Three years after her death people still smile when her name is mentioned, and you will still see pictures she drew and colored for them displayed in their areas. Saying Carlene brought a smile to everyone is not an exaggeration.
She was definitely my little angel and my shadow. I could never have asked for any better. We would always promise each other that we'd be together always and forever friends. That still rings true in my heart. Echoes of some of her favorite songs like "Peace On Earth", and "All My Life's A Circle" ring through my mind as her tiny little voice sang along with them. I speak of Carlene as a blessing in my life. Although that is true, it wouldn't be fair of me to not share with you how much she blessed us all in our lives.
We will never understand why her life was taken so abruptly, but I have no doubt that she will be forever in our hearts.
A tree was planted in her memory on June 10, 1999 where she attended school at Cahill in Saugerties, New York. A plaque was also placed at Cantine Field. On September 20th, flags were flown at half staff on the behalf of my baby girl. It was unfortunate that 563 people had to attend a funeral for Carlene, but it proved that she just may very well have been a true angel that touched many lives. People would tell me that Carlene did in her short life what some people do not do in a lifetime.
I know I will never walk alone. I know this in my heart because her memories keep me alive. One of the last home videos I had was of her singing "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion. My heart will go on solely for the fact that she still resides there. I now know I have my own personal angel watching over me. The pictures I stare at bring tears for the loss of future memories. Pictures of her at her all time favorite place to visit, Sesame Place, saddens me because we did not have a chance to go there one last time.
It never mattered to us if it was snowing or sunny. We always had plans; from making snowmen and snow angels to walking hand in hand through town on a beautiful day - just being happy to be together. We still are and always will be together. A petite little girl wearing glasses since the age of two will continue to stay alive in my memories and the memories of those who loved her. I thank you for your support and only hope this Quest will touch many lives and perhaps save a few with the knowledge and awareness of child safety; alerting parents to how important it is to be well informed to ensure child safety. Carlene's Quest can and will make a difference.
My pain can never be taken away. My love will never falter and my heart will always belong to a little girl I named Carlene on December 7, 1991.
- Ruth