Emily, Our Forever Bella

I’ve been sitting here staring at my screen off and on for three days trying to find a way to begin this post. I’m not very eloquent with words, but I want whatever words I do use to be deserving of Emily. I guess I’m still trying to accept the fact that she’s gone. And it’s hard. As difficult as it is for me, I can’t begin to imagine how difficult it is for her family and close(r) friends. My heart breaks for them. (For those unaware, please read this post.)

One of the things I loved most about Emily was her sense of humor. We shared SO many texts that were FUNNY AS HELL. I would laugh until my face hurt.

We shared a love of the creative process (obviously). Historical fiction. Our kids. (I always wished we lived closer so they would know each other.) Hockey. A while back, when my husband and I would go to a Capitals game and they’d play Montreal, we would arrive early just to stand by Montreal’s tunnel (out of place in our Caps jerseys) so we could take pictures of Emily’s “hockey boyfriend.” (Sorry, Ryan.) Once she insisted he was looking directly at my phone, just for her. Haha. When the Caps weren’t playing Montreal, I’d take pictures of Braden Holtby for Jayden. I’m sorry about the time I told you, Em, it was a live pic and if you touched it, you and Jayden could see him move. I didn’t know sounds of the entire Capital One Arena would go along with the photo. (Scared the crap out of her. Lol. So sorry!)

I had a bit of a hard time deciding which image to use for today’s post. Every Stamping Bella image reminds me of Emily. My entire stamp room reminds me of her. After some thought, I chose Tiny Townie Lily of the Valley because I know Lily of the Valley is Em’s favorite flower. I think of her every time I see one. And I forever will. I wish I had the chance to tell her one more time how much I appreciate her, how grateful I am for the privilege of being on her design team. But also I wish I could thank her once more for being a friend. For believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself.  For making me laugh, SO hard, so many times. And for sharing herself with me.  How lucky am I?

I love you Em. And I miss you.

♥