If you are reading today hoping to find a light hearted read about our European adventure you might want to check back next blog post. Today marks 22 years since my dad died. This year I am very reminded of what it was like to lose him. You see my oldest daughter is the same age I was when he lost his battle to cancer. I am flooded with so any thoughts and emotions from that time in my life. I remember those last few months so vividly in my mind. It makes me stop and wonder what my children will remember vividly of me when I am gone. Today I am reminded to be a better mom, a laughing mom, a happy mom, a mom who knows when enough is enough but can say stop kindly. Today I want to resolve to be the mom I pray I can be and who I want my kids to remember. It is only know after having my own husband and children do I realize the pain and grief my mom felt. My dad was an amazing man. He respected my mom and he made me laugh. He always went above and beyond what he was asked to do at church. He used to make up silly songs to make me smile. Other than that the memories are not as clear as I would like them to be anymore. I remember as a kid my mom took pictures, it often seem like a million. What I would give now for just a few more. I am sharing with y’all a few of my very favorites because for those of you lucky enough to have known my father then these photos should bring a smile. Today I would encourage all of you to hug a little tighter, laugh a little longer and love a little harder those that are precious to you. So that when we have finished our time on this Earth the loved ones we leave behind will have fond memories of us to hold close until we are reunited.