Happy Birthday, Mom

I'm back in blogging action. Upon returning from the beach for work, life was hectic to say the least. I have exciting news to share later this week which some of you may already know about. But before that, there are many other things to catch you up on!

Most importantly - yesterday was my Mom's birthday. Since she passed away in February, I knew June 24th was going to be a different day. How do you celebrate the birthday of someone who has died?

As of late, I have really been noticing the stars starting to align themselves and I have a feeling my Mom has something to do with it. That brought me so much comfort as we reached her "special day." I know she is still a part of us and that she is in tune with the events that occur in our lives.

I posted something yesterday on Facebook that I also wanted to share here:

"To the woman who taught me everything I know - How to sit like a lady, how to eat crabs, how to not be stolen by strangers when they say they're looking for their lost dog, how to mend a broken heart, and how to live life to the fullest - I miss you everyday. Happy Birthday, Mommy. Sending a hug up to Heaven."

She really did teach me everything. Whether through our talks, emails, books she'd get me, or through her brave example - she prepared me for life. I'm still learning of our similarities and realizing things I do that she would have done... like wearing our big [and similar looking] sunglasses :)

When we visited my Mom at the cemetery yesterday, it was extra special because it was her special day. I told her how much we all missed her. My mom's best friend had sent us all the sweetest cards earlier this week and she reminded us of the little blessings and miracles that would be finding their way into our lives. It warmed my heart to know that.

Neighbors/close friends of my parents' gave us a card as well as a beautiful bouquet to place at her grave.

She was so loved.

She still is.

It humbles me to see how many lives she touched. 

No matter how many days and birthdays may have passed, my mom continued to be the little firecracker that she was. And if you knew my Mom, I'm sure you're shaking your head 

and letting out a small chuckle :)

[the last picture taken of her here on Earth]

Although she was far too young to die, the angels took her in their arms because her time here in this lifetime was complete. She had done all that she needed to do. The Lord was ready for her. Age is nothing but a number. Don't count the years, count the life in those years.

What a life she lived.

I love you, Mom. I hope your birthday in Heaven was more beautiful than we will ever understand.