Day Seventeen: Time

Joshua

My cousin Josh and I were born a week apart. We had quite a few joint birthday parties back in the day. With college and the business of life, we grew apart. I always thought that someday we'd grow back together. Probably once we've settled down a bit. But then there's today. And that's not a possibility anymore. That thought is breaking my heart and the hearts of so many who loved him.

Josh unexpectedly passed away this week. News like that just throws you against a wall, takes your breath, and leaves you motionless. This week has been hard for us all. It seems the only way to get through it is together.

I miss him so much. I miss his perfect smile. I was always jealous he never needed braces... But his smile was one that lit up the faces of everyone around him. It would spread from cheek to cheek with nothing held back. When we were little and got dropped off at Sunday school, he would always stick by my side. He was the outgoing one and I was painfully shy. I felt thankful that he would make friends for us. 

Josh, thanks for introducing me to Hanson. I know I hated on them when we were little and you were obsessed, but I've developed a love for them in my 20's (i know, kinda strange). I never got to tell you that. You probably hate Hanson now, so I can just imagine you laughing at me if I were to tell you. 

You never had a negative word to say about anyone and you were so much better at calling our family on birthdays than me. There are so many overwhelming great qualities that I will miss about you. Gosh, I miss you...

Josh, I hope you know that I love you. I'm sorry I didn't make more of an effort to tell you that. Know that you are in my heart. Hope you're skating it up in heaven.

**Photo taken by one of Josh's dear friends. Thank you for this.

Please, sometime this week, slow down and tell the people in your life you love them. I really wish I would have done so.

Day Sixteen: Something New

Catching up on the Photo Challenge.

New dress that I got for Valentine's.

Day Fifteen: Phone

Day Fourteen: Hearts

Happy Valentine's Day in a series of lists...

I've noticed a two themes are emerging in the Pellissier House. 

1. We somehow turn every holiday into a holiweek. We celebrated New Year's Week with 6 days worth of party poppers and sparklers. Birthdays turn into Birthweeks. And now Valentine's Day started on Sunday for us.... who are we?! I blame being newlyweds or something.

2. Last year, I decorated our bed with a fort that resembled my five-year-old fort making days. This year, homemade garland hangs over our bed. Although this was by coincidence, I am running with it. Bed decorating for Valentine's is the new tradition. [I've never had a tradition! I'm so excited!]

I get pretty stoked when Valentine's Day is here. It's not my favorite holiday [Easter is. In case you're wondering.] But it does mean two things...

1. Crafts. Yes, please. Six dollar greeting card. No thanks. 

2. Valentine's day is like Thanksgiving without the Turkey. It's a day to reflect and be thankful for all the love you have in your life. Whether that's love with your creator, love with your husband, love for the class room full of kids you teach, love for the people around you that support you each and every day. 

I love love. It's sad that this holiday has been turned into a day just for consumerism and just romantic love. I think at times I have been guilty of that, but I'm reclaiming it. This is a day where I get to appreciate my friends who make me smile till my cheeks ache, my high school girls who love me despite my dorky over-enthusiasm, and even my dog who can literally do yoga better than I can. 

Hope you have a great week of love!

Much love,

Sam

Day Thirteen: Blue

Happy Valentine's Eve, friends!
The Pellissier House is decorated accordingly; we are ready to celebrate =)