PEACE, LOVE, AND SPARKLES.

Every year when November rolls around I am once again reminded of the life of a loved one lost. I think of him often and know that he is helping people beyond this world. He has helped me in the past years so, I KNOW that he is most definitely helping others that need it more than me.

Ryan was a neighbor, a friend, a brother, and an example to me. I struggle with a lot of things and the loss of his life is one of them. His family is my family and mine-his. It was 5 yrs ago that we lost him. This past Summer in June; I went back to Eugene for the first time since 2008. I high tailed it out of Eugene after graduating in 2007. So this trip back was HARD. Opened a lot of deep wounds and by the end of it I left feeling fulfilled and enlightened. I got to catch up with old friends which was good. But the true highlight and most lasting memories I made were from my few days spent with the Salisbury family. Ian, my little bro and long lost best friend that I can still spend a whole day with and have it seem like it has been seconds. Denise, who is my second Mother and one of the strongest women I know. I was able to have a girls day out with her that can never be replaced in my heart or mind. We went and visited Ryan's grave. This was the first time I had gone out. I knew it was going to be painful. And still as I write this I am beginning to not be able to see the screen. It is hard for me to describe the bond I have to this family. They ARE my family and I have permanently made myself apart of theres! Ian, Jeff, Denise and I went for a golfing adventure that was SO fun. I love spending time with them. We've been through so much bad that it was amazing to be able to enjoy the good times.

Ryan will forever be in my heart. I know he is no longer in pain and is blessing the lives of others by being an angel up in Heaven for the rest of us still down here. I went back to ryan's grave before I left and took these few pictures. I love the Salisbury's and loved Ryan. He is and always be my brother.







MISS YOU, RY! God speed.