Melissa had a smile that could light up even the darkest of rooms. She exuded happiness and was rarely without a smile. She was a fierce friend who was not afraid to stand up for others and willing to help those who were having a bad day–turning their frowns into smiles.
She drew hearts on EVERYTHING!!! When writing her name she dotted the “i” with a heart each and every time. There is no notebook, binder, and book cover with out hearts drawn all over them. Her computer monitor is decorated with hearts of all colors-as another love of hers was Sharpie markers. Notes she wrote to friends, cards she made or signed for friends and family and her hands were frequently decorated with hearts in all shapes and sizes.
Being a teenager, she was also a shop-a-holic and a clothes hound. Hollister was her ultimate favorite stores! Wetseal, Aeropostale, and American Eagle were places she could be seen at any given weekend. And clothes would not be complete without the appropriate footwear—FLIPFLOPS! I cannot tell you how many pairs she owned—o.k. we owned—as we was somewhat willing to share with her mom.
PINK ruled—the only other color she may have liked even slightly better was black and she did her best to wear either one every day. Provided, of course, that it went with her favorite-denim! The pink ribbon serves duel purpose in our lives. Of course, for breast cancer awareness as a family member had battled the disease for decades before her death and also for a dear dear friend who thankfully is a survivor! The other relates directly to her as within days of her death pink ribbons-accented with a touch of lavender began appearing at her school on shirts, lapels, and book bags. They were shared with each and every member of our family as well. We still do not know who made them but the pink ribbon will always be a symbol of someone extraordinary.