You and I we’re the same
Live and die, we’re the same
Hear my voice, know my name
You and I we’re the same
Avett Brothers – Live and Die

It is hard to believe that a year has passed since we lost Savannah (Savvy) while rock climbing at Devil’s Lake in Wisconsin. While she was only 22 when she passed, we have learned over the past year how much she accomplished in her short life. And we have all been amazed and inspired.

It did get me thinking a lot about life and led me to one simple conclusion…we will all die at some point. This is not a snarky, morose statement. It is the understanding that knowing that our time on earth will end at some point, we can learn from Savannah by making every minute matter the way she did.

We hear so often of those diagnosed with a fatal disease writing books, taking big trips and doing amazing things. Why wait? Do them now! We have the greatest gift of life and time…spend it doing the true you…spend it doing amazing.

And here are a few lessons learned:

• Love you first
• Food is an amazing gift that nourishes us…not the enemy that makes you gain weight. Honor your body and what you put in it.
• Don’t waste time on relationships and jobs that are wasting your precious time…change your playground and your playmates
• Lean in to life
• Live your truth

And here are a few things that have happened over the past year:

• I got my first tattoo!
• Hundreds of trees have been planted around the world
• Over $52K (and climbing) has been raised for Project HEAL
• Thousands have been raised for the American Alpine Club and they had their best recruitment effort at the Climb-a-Thon this week
• Savannah’s wish for a tree above her ashes is planted in Roscoe Village with a boulder bench by its side (Leavitt and Roscoe Streets in Chicago)
• There is so much more in the works!

This past week has taught me a lot about what matters and where and how I find joy. On Saturday, March 30th, First Ascent Climbing Gym concluded its 2nd annual week-long climb-a-thon in honor of Savvy. I’m inspired to climb more. Not sure if I’ll make it outdoors but I will most definitely climb indoors. I love the climbing community and I want to stay close.

I will continue to raise money and awareness for passions near and dear to Savvy’s heart. Afterall, I’m still her mom : ) And I will continue to give my time and talents to community organizations that map to my values and are in need of my help.

I will love deeper, hug more (if that’s possible), write more and be the best version of me that I can be. I hope you will join me in this effort of making your minutes matter. We’re all in this life together.

Nina Buik