Look how beautiful you are!

I’m writing this less for other people to read and more so I never forget how I felt on your 57th birthday…your 6th birthday in Heaven. Is that right?! Whoa.

You were never one to love getting a birthday card or big presents, but you sure did enjoy getting together with people you loved. I remember the last birthday we spent together on Earth! It was so fun! We went to your favorite Mexican Restaurant and you invited your friends, my friends, sissy’s friends, Conor’s friends…everyone was your friend.  I remember how bright your smile was that day, and how excited you were to live.

Looking back; I realize now that you knew it would be your last birthday here on Earth. 

Today is your 57th birthday! How crazy is that, woman?! 57 would look so incredibly and undeniably gorgeous on you. I find so much peace knowing that your birthday is celebrated in a place where cancer has no name, love is abounding and Jesus walks alongside you. I could write a laundry list of “things I want you to know,” for your 57th birthday, but in your words I’ll “get to the freaking point Chance Colleen”.

1. I celebrate your life every single day. Not just today.
2. I do my best to radiate the love you left.
3.  Your kiddos miss you.
4. My heart is still so empty without you, but I fill it by listening to videos of your voice and looking at the pictures I have left of you.
5. I look a lot like you now. Kinda cool, huh?

Happy, happy, happy 57th birthday my sweet, beautiful, kind, fierce, Jesus-loving, cancer-free Momma.

I am homesick for you.

Love you forever.

-Your Chancey Colleen.