A Weekend In Montrose: Losing Ones Mind with Family

A weekend or so ago, I went with a bunch of my family to Montrose, Colorado. My Grandma has Alzheimers and even though most of us don't want to think of this: she isn't doing to well. I haven't seen this side of the family nearly as much as I'd like so I jumped on the chance of spending a few days with them.

Listening to John Mayer. Loudly.

My traveling, baby bump.

Alzheimers is a crazy, crazy disease. Seeing a family member go through that makes me wonder if losing my mind or my body first is better or not. That's not really something one wants to think about, but it feels very real to me lately. Seeing my grandma so frustrated because she can't communicate like she once did is tough. I can't even begin to fathom what it is like to literally lose your mind. Do you know? Is she aware? 

At least, I know with complete certainty, that she is surrounded by family and people that love her. This woman carries a legacy. She had 7 kids. She raised them as the strong woman I know she is. My grandpa is also one of the strongest individuals I've ever met. He loves her, even when she might not have any idea who he is, he loves her. He's there. He's taking care of her and himself the best that he can. That's love. 

My Grandpa Triplett

I understand that our lives do come to an end at one point or another. I just pray that when that time comes for me someday that I am surrounded by family, much like my grandma. 

In the end, family and God are really all you have. 

That is enough. 

I'm Thankful For: Family & My Husband

In honor of Thanksgiving week, I'd like to take a few days to really reflect on all of aspects of our little lives that I am so very thankful for. This year has been an amazing one. So many new opportunities, projects, goals met, friends made. I want to celebrate this season in all it's fullness. 

First and foremost, I am thankful for my family. My parents, my grandparents, my aunts and uncles, etc.  They are there for me in so many ways and I really don't know what I would do or who I would be without them. All of those years of helping me follow my dreams, moving me half way across the country and back, and supporting my creative endeavors; I am forever grateful. They are filled with so much wisdom for life. 

I am thankful for my sister. She is the most creative, daring, and stubborn person I know. I mean all of that in the best way possible. She is an artistic force to be reckoned with and someone that, along with her man,  I know will always never be too far away, no matter where our lives take us. 

Let us not forget also the extended family that has also become mine in the last first years after I married Ryan. I seriously have been blessed with the best in-laws and brother and sister-in-law a girl could ask for. They support us so well in everything we do. Reenie also bakes the best chocolate chip cookies I have ever tasted!  

And last, but certainly not least, my husband. This man, seriously. How did I ever deserve you? I am so thankful to spend each and everyday learning our lives together. You hold my heart.