Friday Fav - The Ride

Every year I pick a new quote to guide me through the next 365 days. Whether it stems from wanting to be more daring to more giving, it's one of my favorite ways to think about what I want for myself, my relationships, my future, and my every day.

When thinking about 2014, I have to shake my head at the 2 years prior and hope, like all fingers and toes crossed type of hope, that 2014 is so much better. Losing my Dad and Mike's Mom over the last 2 years has taken a toll on us. We've gotten through them together in a way that felt like it was meant to be ... we were given each other to lean on, but today and moving forward our hearts need a break. This year, I've decided to mix things up a bit and guide myself through 2014 by following these words:

Friday Fav - The Ride

When you lose someone so important in your life, a big part of you falls apart. You doubt the days ahead, you shake your fist at God, you have so many unanswered questions, and you crumble every time you see their picture, remember their voice, or crave their hug. 

But, you also grow in a way you never knew possible for yourself. You see life in places you never saw before, you find that God is still there watching over you, but with one more angel, you don't need an answer to all those questions ... you just need memories, and when you see a picture, think about their voice, or find yourself missing their hug, you find someone else steps up to the plate.

You realize that life, the years you've had, and hopefully the many more ahead are still shining. You realize that life, as so many people can tell you, is not perfect. It will test you, it will sink your heart, and it will teach you patience with time. It will surprise with love, laughter, and faith in something you couldn't rely on before. It will take you on a ride that no matter what happened along the way, you'll be so grateful you took the chance. 

This year, I'm going to do just that. I'm going to enjoy the ride.