Skip to content 
My mom died a year ago this week just as we were celebrating my birthday.
As she lay dying, my niece said, “Oh, by the way, Happy Birthday.”
I mumbled, “Thank you,” forgetting what day it was.
Going back home this year wasn’t easy, but @surgjohn0723 wanted to make it special.
We celebrated his birthday and our anniversary; staying at the same hotel where we exchanged vows @lafonda
We captured some special moments with our friend and photographer @webbing2 ❣️
And, entrusted two designers who knew what this trip meant to us.
Tammy, @tacouture designed my beautiful, burgundy two-piece couture outfit. The top, with a plunging neckline, was fully hand-beaded, the skirt (with pockets) boasted a high waist, blossoming out at the bottom; with peekaboo slits.
Sebastian, @sartori_amici made sure John’s suit was custom tailored to the tee with beautiful lines and a pocket square to match my dress. @mygroomsroom
In Santa Fe, we ate, laughed, talked, reminisced and spoke about my mom a lot. I also wept at her grave.
It’s my birthday this week and the first anniversary of my mom’s death. I miss her everyday, sometimes I think more than humanly possible. It’s a deep unwavering ache that won’t go away.
Why share? It helps to get it out. Not fake it. Not grieve the way society dictates; silencing the pain that comes along with losing someone you love.
She left me in good hands, though. Thank you, John, for helping me through the toughest year of my life. I love you and will never forget all you’ve done for me. #xo
