MEMORIES of MOMMA*:
The date was January 1, 2016, and Mom and I were saying our "see you laters" before I headed back to Alaska after a 2+ week trip to Alabama. It was one of the best visits ever. Little did I know that just 10 days later, she'd text me about stomach pain, which eventually landed her in the hospital for the remainder of her life. On January 15, 2016, her two word text — "Come home" — prompted me to return back to Huntsville at break-neck speed.
Little did I know this would be the last selfie we would take together during happy times.
I still remember how her eyes welled up with tears at the airport when I left and how her hair smelled so clean, like fresh rain, as I hugged her tight.
*It's Day 71, the last day 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.