Remembering Nina

Today is the one-year anniversary of the loss of Nina. Today marks a very sad and difficult day for my dear friend Marija and her family. I wish there were a way to take the pain they continue to feel away. There is no such way.
What I can do is remind us all how very lucky we are to have each other. On behalf of Nina and her family I can implore you to enjoy every moment you have with one another, leave nothing unsaid, and never take for granted all the beautiful little things the ones around you do, say, and feel.
Nina has been gone for a year now, and it is still as tragic today as it was then. Our lives go on, even the lives of her family, but not a day goes by that she is not horribly missed, and deeply loved.
I know her family takes solace in knowing that she sits with the angels, loved, safe, and free. We believe that she is ever present among her family and friends. Her smile is seen, her laughter is heard, and her love is deeply felt. She is there among them, with them, in them. And she always will be. She was never really gone, nor will she ever be.
Nina, today, in my own way, I remember the beautiful, vivacious, lively, caring, intelligent, witty, young woman you are. I am sure you are keeping the angles on their toes (and in stunning fashion.). And if they allow leopard print wings, I am sure you are wearing them. I imagine your warm smile and explosive laugh adds another lining to the cloud you sit upon. Only, rather than silver, I am sure it is something bold like Fuchsia!
We miss you Nina, every day. But we look forward to your reminders that you are just a giggle, a twirl, a heartbeat away.