MEMORIES of MOMMA*:
I had forgotten I had even taken this photograph, but it's quickly becoming one of my favorites of Mom. This picture is from our mother-daughter beach trip in 2010 to celebrate finishing grad school. We went on an impromptu Gulf Coast catamaran cruise at sunset after seeing a random advertisement at the hotel.
The sailboat was called "Wild Hearts," and we had a blast out on the water, though cautious Momma stayed below deck most of the trip. Whenever I'd say, "Momma, I'm goin' up top to take pictures," she'd protectively respond... in long drawn out Southern syllables... "Now you be careful, Candice."
I love how happy and carefree Mom is in this photo. Her hair is windswept and messy. She's grinning from ear-to-ear. Her face is sun-kissed. And she's wearing the beautiful diamond pendant that I am now wearing as I write this tribute. She is my heart!
*It's Day 49 of my 71 day photo series in honor of my dear sweet Momma who passed away on 03.21.2016 after a harrowing 71 day health battle. Those 71 days do not define her. Oh no. What defines her — and me — are the incredible 66 years that she lived her life. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the beautiful moments and memories of her life.