Today marks seven years since we lost my sister. I can’t believe she’s been gone that long. Sometimes it’s hard to believe she’s gone at all. I look back at the pictures of the kids, and they are so tiny. How did this happen?

Seven years. So much has changed. And to anyone who has lost someone, time keeps moving on, but sometimes you feel stuck in the same place. Sometimes you can’t get past the hurt and the grief. Sometimes you are just going through the motions, but you’ve lost all sense of feeling and purpose.

Yes, death is a gut punch. It hurts like hell, and you can’t breathe. But somehow you have to work through that grief and live a life your loved one would be proud of.

Seven years. Some days it hurts more than others, and some days you realize that they are right there by your side no matter what. This past weekend, I was in Pennsylvania hanging out in the kitchen with my cousin and some friends. You know you always end up in the kitchen, even though there are plenty of other, more comfortable places to go! But throughout the weekend, there was a parade of cardinals. I believe three females and a male or two. My whole family stopped by to say hello! I couldn’t believe it. Usually, there is one or two that will stop by, but this was amazing!

Even yesterday in Florida, I looked out my window and a red blur flew by. My people are everywhere, and I have to believe they are saying, I may be gone, but I am flying. It is peaceful. It’s time for you to be peaceful, too.

So, little sis, it’s been seven years, and I miss you like crazy. I am so proud to be an aunt, and I love your children like they were my own. They are the best little people, and I know you are guiding them as they grow. Tell everyone hello from us and keep on visiting. It’s my favorite thing.