We found out Sunday night that Mike's younger brother Justin passed away. It was really hard news to take in for both of us, but especially Mike. It's hard finding out such tragic news so far from home. You have all those feelings of sorrow, but feel a disconnect as well, like it hasn't really happened. He was so young, just six months older than me.

Living so far away, I didn't get the chance to spend a lot of time with Justin. We would see him every time we came home, but I didn't get to know him as well as I would have liked. In the time I knew Justin it was easy to see what a loving and genuine person he was. He's one of those people that has a talent for making you feel like you are the only one in the room when you are talking and that he was so glad to be with you. He was not fake in any way. I loved that he would tease Mike about how he must have tricked me good to get me to marry him. His smile was so contagious. And I remember the first time I met him, thinking how handsome he was.

His obituary was so true to who Justin was. We've been watching some of his ski videos that he made, he had no fear and loved being outdoors. It's been amazing to be home with family. We've been doing everything together and trying to make the best of this trip. I'm so lucky to have such wonderful in-laws and to be married to Mike. Thanks to all our friends and family who have been there for us. Give your loved ones an extra hug and kiss today.