Ellie

First things first, her name is Eliana. But she prefers Ellie. I call her bestie.

As a matter of fact, a lot of people do. That's just Ellie: everyone's best friend. It's a magical combination of humor and heart that make her that way. Humility too, as she doesn't see herself the way we all do.

The magic could be a curse though. If you're too nice, people pleasing becomes self sacrificing. Over the years I witnessed Ellie turn that all around, she only got better.

She's a dreamer too. We've made plans to backpack through Europe, drive cross-country, and open up a hot dog cart. Of course we haven't done half of the things we thought, but she believed we could. She believes. It is her ambition and spirit that's led her in a positive direction.

A student achieving her career goals. A daughter taking care of her family. A friend lending an ear or a shoulder. A person living her life. I envy her optimism the most. A stark contrast to my general outlook on life, but I guess that's why it works. Yin & yang, peanut butter and jelly, Melissa and Ellie.

Ellie volunteered with enthusiasm to do this for me. We walked out to the pier in frigid temperatures with wind whipping in off the bay, just to catch the end of the sunset. It helps to have good people like that, and even better when your people look like models.

Thanks Ellie, hope you enjoy.