Blog Day of Silence

Today isn't about me, my family or my opinions about current events... it's a day where a big group of women are honoring a special lady in the blog world, Summer. Her sweet Daddy, Butch, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday - and today are the services devoted to his memory in her hometown in Louisiana.

Summer has been through a rough time over the last two years - she's endured more than most do in a lifetime, and this turn of events breaks my heart in so many ways. I remember just a few weeks ago being thrilled because her Dad had gotten the word that he was cancer free after all of his treatments... and thinking that FINALLY the tides were turning in Summer's favor and that this might be the start of all of her dreams coming true.

For whatever reason, that wasn't the case in this scenario - and I can't imagine how incredibly hard this is on her... it breaks my heart because I know that the world lost an incredible man this week - I never personally met him - but I know how special his daughter is... so that is all I need to know. Summer is one of the most selfless people I've ever known... she goes out of her way to encourage everyone around her, and to be a wonderful friend inspite of her hard-times.

She has taught me so much about how to handle adversity with grace, and how to keep putting one foot in front of the other to fight on another day. That isn't to say that there aren't days when she needs us to lift her up for a change... and this happens to be one of those days. I can't imagine a more difficult day in the life of a child, but I'm so grateful that she was able to be there with her Dad in his final week, days, and moments. I can't imagine anywhere else I'd rather be in that situation than soaking up every second that you have... it won't ever be enough, but special time together just the same.

I have no doubt in my mind that she has a special guardian angel up in Heaven walking along side her now. I also know with all my heart that Butch is, was, and will always be so incredibly proud of the woman his daughter has become... because she truly is one in a million.

Summer, I know that words won't ever be enough to fill the whole in your heart right now - but just know that you are in my thoughts, prayers, and heart... I love you girl, and I wish I could be there with you today holding your hand. In my mind, I'm there with you... and standing along side you to give you whatever strength that I possibly can. I'm here for anything you might need - so don't hesitate to ask.