Los almendros

On top of little ol' Estepa, there are beautiful almond trees that are blooming. Since the climate is warmer in Andalucia then the rest of spain, they bloom earlier here. 

Here's a few shots from a couple weekends ago...

Ten years.

Mom.

I think we have a similar sense of humor, although I can’t be quite sure. I catch myself telling people “Oh, you’ll be fine by your wedding day,” when they get a scratch or a bruise. I used to think that was silly, but now I would love to hear it from you on my day. I’m told I walk like you did, which means you walked real funny because I’m certain I do. You made me take lessons for every sport there is, for that reason I have an intense admiration for soccer and you learned to like it because you loved watching me play. I will never pierce my ears because you and Nanny never did. I adore that about you. You’re the reason I don’t settle for second best because you told me not to, and that I am worth more than I will ever know. However, you also told me that I had moles on my arms because I didn’t drink enough milk and soon my body would be absorbed in brown marks so I’d better drink up. I will one day tell your grandchildren that. Thanks for letting me use your film camera. Your passion for photography has been the reason I carry my camera with me as much as possible, and always will. You loved blue lights at Christmas time. One day, my house will be decorated with blue lights, just for you. I remember your smell when you got dressed up and would go out with dad. You smelled wonderful and I hope I never loose what that smell means to me. The best compliment a person can give me is that I remind them of you. It's pretty wonderful since you were the most beautiful woman in the world. I love to dance. I now know you weren’t lying when you said you were a good dancer, because we both know I didn’t get any rhythm from dad.You tucked me into my bed tighter than I could ever do on my own, and would sing me the sweetest rendition of “My little sunshine” that I will ever hear. Thank you for being the first to show me what amazing grace is. I want you to know that you gave me such a beautiful gift that was never yours to give, and I can’t wait to ask God that list of questions we had for him, with you by my side. 

I wish you were here to thank everyone that it has taken to step in for you. 

The ones you already knew and loved so well, and the new ones that I know you would just adore.

Mom, you are the most beautiful woman I will ever know.
I think about you everyday and how much I miss you in my life.

 I am proud to be your one and only daughter. 

I love you.

February 2nd, 2001