As we wander down this road called life, there are those rare occasions where we happen upon a magical place; a place beyond ordinary that catches both the eye and the heart. Such a place makes a permanent impression that becomes party to the standard by which all places are judged. Seldom is such a place is the intended destination, yet they always make us wish that it were.

In the same way, there are those few souls make an indelible impact upon us as we navigate the time we are given. These precious individuals pour value into us and we are made better by simply knowing them. Just as the places described above, such encounters are rare and most can count their number on a single hand.

I consider myself especially blessed, both by the number of such gems I have been touched by and the duration of such contact. There are none so fortunate than those who start life with one of these and maintain that contact over the course of an entire lifetime.

Thanks Mom, for pouring so much into me. Although we are separated by so many miles, I know our hearts are side by side.

I love you.