I'm back, I think

Wow, it's been a very long time since I have posted anything. It is my goal to get back on track with this blogging thing. This has been a very rough year for me, but in some sense I guess tragedies can only make us stronger.

In April my mother passed away, she had been struggling with Alzheimer's for several years and she was finally free of her earthly prison. My parents were married for exactly 56 and a half years. I was fortunate enough to see my father grow through the process of my mothers illness it was a sight to see. He truly is my hero.

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of my mother and the strength she has given me throughout my entire life. She truly was an angel on this earth and now she is in heaven watching over everyone she loved and knew.

In May one of my friends Justin was killed in a work related accident he was 30. It was a very difficult loss his wife Jessica is a very dear friend of mine and through her I was able to get to know this amazing soul. We celebrated his life on what would have been their 6th Anniversary. "JT" was a such an awesome person and through the love that he and Jessica had we were all blessed with Korbin who is 5.

On the 21st of August one of the biggest shocks of my life happened. My best friend of 33 years Heather passed away (we met when we were 5). I flew to Arizona to be with her family and celebrate a life that was cut way too short. Other than my family, Heather has been the one constant throughout my entire life. I am not sure how I will get through my remaining years on this earth without her physical presence, however I know her spiritual presence will be with me forever.

Throughout this trying year another one of my dear friends was dignosed with breast cancer another event that rocked everyone in her lives world. Jacque (Jackie) is such a special soul and I am truly grateful that I know her. A group of us got together and created "Team Jacque" and throughout her chemo and down days we have all been taking our turns to help her out the best we can. Things are looking good and I know she will continue to beat the crap out of this stupid cancer!

I have chosen songs that remind me of these people. Much love goes out to them and anyone who has had the privilege of knowing them.

Lauren Alaina - Like my Mother Does

For Mother - I like to think that everything positive I achieve in my life is by example. To do things and see things "Like my mother does."

Ozzy Osbourne - Old 'LA' Tonight

For Justin - This was one of "JT's" favorite songs, I will always think of him when I hear it.

The Carpenters - I Won't Last a Day Without You

For Heather - This was our best friend song chosen by Heather. We were in our early 20s when she decided we needed a song to describe what we mean to each other. Every word resinates our relationship. I had "I can take all the madness the world has to give. But I won't last a day without you." Tattooed on my left calve just for her. This way no matter what I will never forget the love I have for her and the love she has for me.

Demi Lovato - Skyscraper

For Jacque - I think this is a perfect song for Jacque as it really focus' on rising up from the ashes. No matter what you throw at her, you will not tear her down. She is a skyscraper.