May 9 would have been my Mom’s birthday. It always falls around Mother’s Day. It makes for a tough few days every year. As this time frame comes around each year, I’m reminded of how quickly time has flown by since Mom passed away. In some ways, it feels like I just talked to her and yet in other ways, it feels like a decade has passed.

This past weekend, Dad came into town to visit my younger brother Will for his birthday (which happens to fall on May 10). Rachel and I spent Saturday evening with all of them. It was so good to see Dad, Will and his family. I am so grateful for those opportunities. We even got over to Rachel’s parents for an hour or so, as they live close to Will. Family truly is the most important thing, and I’m blessed to be a part of two amazing groups.

Picture with my Dad and Will

As I close, I wanted to share a few pictures that my family was texting to each other last night. The golden picture is one my Dad sent to us of him and Mom from 1972. Dad was 24 and Mom was 22. They were so young and in love. It makes me so very happy.

Picture of my parents from 1972

Picture from 1987 of my Dad’s side of the family featuring all of my Cousins, Aunts, Uncles and Grandparents

Picture with my siblings from the late 90’s