29

Last week I turned 29. I have no fears of getting older and so far have enjoyed my new age with friends and loved ones. Today is unique. One year ago Bridget passed away. Writing this I started to put that the world lost Bridget, but we didn't. I see her, and I know so many people do also, in so many places. Driving to work this morning I was thinking about her and her family and I looked up and saw a pink Komen Ribbon sticker on the back of a car. Pink sunsets will always be special. The term "big girl panties" will always bring a smile to my face. How do we honor someone who did so much with not enough time? I will wear my pearls and continue to support the fight against breast cancer.

Bridget always wore pearls, and I love that about her because I love wearing pearls too. Pearls have always been special to me. My mom bought me my first string of pearls for my high school graduation and my godmother bought me a matching bracelet. I hold these two items very close to my heart. I always felt so grown up and classy wearing them. Pearls have become a regular part of my life. I wore them at my wedding, I wear them to work, I wear them with jeans, and heck I even ran a 15k wearing a set of pearls. That last one was to honor Bridget. I wear them when I need a boost of confidence or to feel like I have a fighter in my corner.

Today I wear pearls to honor a friend, former colleague, and an amazing woman: Bridget. Bridget worked for years to kick cancer's rear, she loved hard, played hard, worked hard, and touched many. One year ago Bridget was 29. I am 29.