Beautiful You

This post is in memory of my mom. She truly was my everything, through the good and the bad. A year ago today mom's pain was taken away and my life forever changed. Within that year I think the distress of loosing her has actually increased than it has lessened. A piece of my heart died that day and I've accepted the fact that I won't get it back. Death is inevitable, but to go too soon is a struggle for those left behind. We spend every day asking why, wishing for more time, wondering if they're in a better place or able to look down on us, and just longing to see their face once again.

To those of you who have lost a parent or loved one from cancer, you understand, and we will forever have a special bond because of it. I have met several people this year who have been through a similar situation, we all walk with a bit of a heavy heart. To those of you going through it right now, stay strong and surround yourself with a great support group.To those of you who have helped me through this past year, thank you.

It would be easy for me to just hide under my covers today with a bottle of wine and feel sorry for myself. Instead, I'm going to celebrate my moms life. I've gathered up some pictures of how I remember her. The daughter that every one swore was going to be a boy, the little sister, the wife, the mother, the lady you didn't dare cross cause she'd put you in your place, the biggest animal lover on the planet, the best smile, the lady with 9 lives (the red mustang was her h.s.car after the train hit her) the person who pushed and motivated me growing up, the lady who's greatest gift was teaching so many how to be brave,  the warrior who gave cancer a 11 year battle with a smile on her face.  I see my mom more clear and more beautiful than I ever imagined I could. So mom, this is to you, the beautiful, beautiful you...

I love you. 

2011 Year End Recap

I can say, unequivocally, that 2011 was both the most trying and the most beautiful year of my 28 years on this earth. Saying goodbye to it is bittersweet. It was a year that brought me great joy, great growth, pushed my strength coupled with great struggle and great heartache. I went through more this year than most do in 10. Loosing a job, loosing loved ones, selling property I never thought I'd have to, finding that perfect acreage, starting another business, and shattering last years clients list. I pushed myself through so much this year, I honestly can't believe I'm still standing. It has been a whirlwind, an incredible yet scary whirlwind. I could not be more grateful for all 2011 has brought me, even the ugly parts. Or maybe most especially the ugly parts. I am starting 2012 stronger than I’ve ever been, and know I can tackle anything thrown at me. I can't thank everyone enough for the love and support you've shown me.  

Below I've put together some of my favorite photos from this year. Some are because of the image themselves, others because of the memories with the people in them. I feel very fortunate to get to meet and work with new people all the time. There are those that have made me laugh, made me cry, made step out of my comfort zone, and those that show me that love really is the best gift we can all give. 

Wishing you all a very happy new year!

Marcy & Jack (Engaged!}