Last Saturday

 

I honestly don’t even know where to start. 

Last Saturday surpassed anything I could have imagined.  When I came up with the crazy idea to have a living celebration I didn’t know what to expect.  Would people show up? Would people think I was crazy?  Would they have memories to share with me.  Was 2.5 hours going to be too long?  Would there be enough food.  

as the date got closer my anxiety hit higher.  By Saturday at lunch time I was ready to cancel it.  The hall was set up there was no turning back. 

So here’s what I learned: 

1. People want to help.  I put out a signup genius that surpassed anything I could have asked for.  There was enough food to feed an army and people were happy to help and bring food. 

2. You don’t need a lot for a living celebration.  A hall, some pictures and some goodies. It doesn’t need to be fancy.  We had a candy a bar, a Photo Booth, rock painting and some games for the kids. 

3. People won't know what to expect.  To be honest, I didn't know what to expect.  I was thinking that I would be sitting there with nobody showing.  

4. This is untraditional-nothing I do in life seems to be traditional.  But everyone that came through the line told me that they loved the idea.  I loved it too and hope that more people will start to think about doing this.  

5. You don't need it to be expensive.  We rented a hall, we asked people to bring goodies, we decorated with dollar store table clothes.  We had pictures for people to look at.  There wasn't a lot of money being spent.  

So thank you to everyone that came out.  It was incredible seeing friends I haven’t seen in years.  Liz and Pam-from college-thank you for making the trip!  I wish I had longer to connect with you!    High school friends that I haven’t seen In  years (Rachel, Katie, Michelle, Jessica, Jenn, Amy, Kara)  thank you!  thank you for still showing up for me. Just like in high school. I appreciate you. Mia and your son…the sweetest ever!  my boys are still talking about their goodie bags!!!  Kelly from Baelors mom group—you were a life saver among the new moms for me.  I questioned if I made the right decision going but you calmed my fears.  Meghan and Lynne from Trent’s mommies group.   I can’t believe it’s been almost 11 years!   Maria from the condo-our evening walks with the kiddos helped get me through the nights so many weeks!   The AgeSpan crew-I have learned so much from all of you!   I am so glad that I have gotten to know you on a professional and personal level.  To my fellow COA directors.  Many of you have watched me grow up.  From a scared recent grad to what I feel is a confident professional.  Your guidance has been much appreciated.  

The Harbor Schools/NFI/ Easter seals crew- Casey, Tamara, Joe, Emily-thank you!  You always made me feel like part of the crew even as a part timer!  Casey-our quest to try every photobooth at every wedding expo, getting our nails done.  I’ll cherish those times!  

Cassie-I don’t even know where to begin.  Thank you Doesn’t seem like enough for all you have done. 

Katie, Meg, Jordan, Jennilee, Sue,Susie and all my NES moms/families/supports. Some of you i havent met more than a handleful of times. But you have embraced my family in love and never looked back. You all keep a watchful eye on the boys, ensuring that no need is left.  You have loved them like your own.  And for that I couldn’t be more grateful.  And it’s not just the kids you have embraced.  When there was a need you have come through.  

NES teachers and staff. Thank you!  Ms Yando, Mrs Brynes, Melanie, Jennie (?), Jen G, Melissa- thank you for keeping a watchful eye on the boys.  I worry so much about them but knowing we have all these eyes  on them makes it easier.  

 To my “new friends” Caroline, Jen, Bianca…I’m sorry we met but so happy I have you three in my corner.  

Alison, unfortunately you know first hand what my family is going through.  I worry sometimes I lean on you too much knowing all you have been through.  But you are always there with a smile and a hug.  I’m so happy I met you but mad it’s under the circumstances that I did.  

To my neighbors-Jack and Michelle, Al and Nancy thank you!  For the offers of help, to mowing the lawn, plowing the driveway.  Getting the kids off the bus.  thank you for showing up Saturday!  Moving to the neighborhood was the best thing we did. 

My friends I met through Hamilton COA and West Newbur-thank you for watching me grow into the professional I am today.  Thank you for standing by me.  My coworkers- Laurie, Barbara, Kerrin, Michelle, Andrew, Dawnielle, Jake…thank you for the laughs during the day!  Coworkers, volunteers, and participants are what makes the days go by.   

My in laws… Cindy, Steve, Jen, Justin, Eric & Ellie.   Thank you!  Thank you for the check in’s, changing plans so you can cover for me.  The meals, the messages, the check ins.  The rides to the ball field, cheering the boys on. Knowing when I need a break and keeping the kids but also knowing when I need the boys with me.  Thank you!  

Jackie Marie, Mia, Morgan…thank you for making the drive up.  I loved meeting Morgan and was so happy to see you both!  From the moment we first met Jackie we had a special bond.  I love yoh like a sister!  Mia I am so proud of the mom you have become.  Watching you with Morgan made my heart grow. 

Linda, Andrea, Lucy, Tess, Janeth, Tony, Auntie Pat and Uncle John.   Thank you!  Thank you for your support on Saturday!  I know we haven’t been the closet family but thank you!  I love you all.  i hope i can get better about keeping in touch and grabbing a coffee. Xoxo

My family…Mom, Paul, Joan, Emily, Tom, Kyle, Karl, Colin, Lisa this wouldn’t have been possible without you all!  Thank you for standing by me always!  Thank you for talking me off the edge so many times.  Thank you for reminding me why I am fighting everyday.  Thank you for ensuring I never go to an appointment alone.  Most of all I am sorry to put you through this.  I am sorry that you are fighting this with me.

Bryan, Trent and Baelor…I am so sorry.   This isn’t the life i dreamed we would be living.  i am sorry that all I want to do is lay down and cry.  But thank you for pushing me to not do just that.  Thank you for reminding me why I am fighting everyday.  Thank you for the hugs, cuddles, kisses. I worry about the three of you more than you will ever know.  But I know that you will be okay.  I know that whatever life throws at us you will overcome.  Bryan I am so incredibly thankful for you. For us.  Im sorry this is the hand we were dealt but I’m so glad I have you by my side.     Please dont be afraid to ask for help.  Please accept the help that is offered.  If I have learned anything it takes a village!  

There are so many people that came out on Saturday to celebrate me.  As I am writing this I am realizing that I want to thank you all individually but it’s just not possible. Please know that I noticed each and everyone of you.  I appreciate that on a random Saturday you came out and spent time with me.  You came out to share stories and laugh with me.  Thank you!   Thank you for reminding me why I am fighting this horrible disease. Thank you all for embracing my crazy idea.  Thank you for not making me feel crazy and telling me it was a good idea.  Who knows maybe ill start a trend and more people will do this.  

To my friends that reached out because they couldn’t make it. Thank you for letting me know.  I know life is busy.  But I appreciate you.  Please reach out again for coffee or lunch.  Please don’t be a stranger. 

and those that did come please don’t be a stranger.  Text, call let’s grab a coffee!  If you need my number ask.  

I love you all!  Thank you and I’m sorry you are walking this walk with me.  Nobody deserves to hear Stage Iv uncureable cancer.  Nobody wants LMD on their cancer bingo card 😂