17 years. 🤍 Today makes 17 years since my mom transitioned, and one thing I’ve learned about grief is that it doesn’t always show up the same way. Some years, the tears come. Some years, I find myself reflecting a little more. And some years, the day goes on like any other day. Not because I’ve forgotten, but because life has continued, and I’ve learned how to live with her absence. I’ve also learned that every anniversary doesn’t require a grand gesture. I don’t have to visit the cemetery, take a trip, light a candle, or spend the entire day being sad to prove how much I love and miss my mom. Sometimes I just want to enjoy my day. Sometimes I want to do absolutely nothing. And sometimes I just want to remember the good times, because Lord knows we had plenty of those. 17 years later, I’m still her daughter. Still carrying pieces of her with me. Still figuring out life without being able to pick up the phone and call her. And through it all, I’m still living. Love you forever, ...