There are certain people you meet in life who make a lasting impact, even if your paths cross physically for just a short period of time. Amy is one of those people. We were professional colleagues from 2005 to 2007. Yet, I think about her often. I had dinner with her two weeks ago and we laughed, we cried, and we talked and talked and talked. In September 2011, she and her husband flew to Maui. I knew that she had been planning and dreaming of this trip for some time since we talked about the beautiful Hawaiian islands many times when we worked together. One thing on the agenda: surfing lessons. I will never forget it when she posted a photo of herself on Facebook as a self-proclaimed surfer girl. I loved her sense of adventure, accomplishment and the joy as she surfed for the first time. She also made this comment on her Facebook page: “All – when’s the last time you did something for the first time? Whatever it is — put it on your calendar and do it.”

In spring of 2012, her beloved husband was diagnosed with cancer. On November 4, 2012, he passed away at the age of 41. Amy was an adoring wife. In a three-week period, she also lost her mother to cancer.

So, in honor of Amy and her beloved Ben, I am going to make a list of things I want to do for the first time. Life is short. Grab onto it.

This photo was taken in Kauai in 2011. We were driving the main road when we saw yet another gorgeous beach with suffers out seizing the day. We stopped and admired their athleticism, and their love and respect for the ocean.

Here’s to Amy and her dear husband and mother. To healing, to memories and to her husband’s eternal role as the “Sunshine Provider.”