Doing it all~

Mommy~

This is the time in my life I would do anything to have you (and Dad too of course). Your advice, direction, laughter, love, and care is really, really missed. You were just the best person to talk to. You would tell me when I was being a fool and would yell at me if I were being mean to Ted. I distinctly remember in Cincinnati last year when Ted cooked bacon in the oven. Who does that? And the grease spilled everywhere. He left it uncleaned. I went later that day to cook appetizers for Christina, Matt and Aydan's arrival and all of sudden the oven was smoking with bacon grease. I was yelling for him to clean and Dad basically wanted to go home. He would not stand for fighting and either would you. So you helped me cook my artichoke dip, what was suppose to be baked in the oven, in a pan on the stove. So it wasn't the best but you helped me make it work!

I also am thinking of the last time you were in Cincinnati. We made Martinis one night and went to see "27 dresses" the next night. Just you and I. We ate popcorn and laughed at the movie, which was adorable. We loved Katherine Heigle, which is "izzie" from Grey's anatomy. Dad and Ted were out doing their own thing.

I was so lucky to have the relationship that I did with you. But I think that is what makes this even more difficult accepting that your gone. But one thing is for sure, I am a stronger woman because of this great tragedy. I honestly know I can do anything I put my heart and mind to. I told my Vice President today in a meeting, "do I want to be Vice President and sit in your chair one day? Sure.", "do I want to have a family? Sure.", "I want to do it all and I am confident it's possible". I believe I could be an exception for the rule that women can truly have it all. I want a great career, a strong/close immediate and extended family, incredible relationships with friends that still gather for girl trips, involvement in some type of Church, tons of travel, lots of exercise, and one day would like to educate and draw awareness on Mental Illness and the side effects and risks of weaning off medication. I can do it all...with your guidance.

Your Little Western Michigan grad is all grown up and ready to take on the World.