I went to Rio and Sao Paulo for work in March, but as the fates would have it, I ended up in Rio for the same weekend that my amazing French cousin and an old friend from the states who had lived in Brazil for years were all in Rio.

My friend and I headed to a secluded beach outside of the city. We swam in the cool ocean, sunbathed, and had dinner at sunset in a national park. The following day, my cousin and I headed up to a waterfall in an urban park and then strolled through the Rio Botanical Garden.

Together, we talked about love, life, and what we were all here for. I thought of Stacey throughout the travels, seeing butterflies and beautiful flowers everywhere, but honestly, I thought of her most while just talking with my friends and family. She was so great at connecting with people, listening, and remembering what mattered most. I was glad to do the same, with people I really loved.