It's been exactly one year since my Mom called late at night from Alabama, saying she had stomach pain and asking if it sounded like the symptoms I had when my gallbladder was acting up a few years ago. I encouraged her to go to the emergency room, which she did immediately. Little did we know, the next 71 days would be the worst of our lives. And on 03.21.2016, she left this earthly home for her heavenly one.
Today, January 10, begins a 71 day photo series in remembrance of my dear sweet Momma. This is to honor her, my Best Friend.
For 66 incredible years, she lived a full and beautiful life. Those 71 days do not define her or her story. Her breathtaking beauty was matched only by her incredible heart. Her soul was full of kindness, and her spirit overflowed with thoughtfulness. She was eager to love and be loved. She was absolutely the best Gift from God.
It's true, those 71 days haunt me — they changed me and ransacked my life and taught me first-hand that life is short and we aren't promised tomorrow.
Those 71 days taught me cherish, to dream bigger and love harder, to be gentler with myself and with others. Without each other and without love, life is so empty. It's incomplete.
Thank you, friends, for being part of this journey. The memory of her is eternal.