Happy Valentine's Day

I haven't felt like sharing in a long time. Today, I'm experiencing such a wide range of emotions and I feel moved to share. I'm writing this on the fly so surely it will be full of typos and mistakes.

First thing this morning, I checked the Caringbridge site to check on my friend John. I knew it was coming and sure enough, the message was there. He passed away peacefully yesterday evening surrounded by his family. I shed many a tear. Then I thought about how appropriate it was to get this message the morning of Valentine's Day because John's death is a symbol of true love. His wife Becky has been sharing their daily experience with us on Caringbridge.  It's been beautiful and an honor to be part of their journey and battle with cancer. Many of us have shared their pain and laughs along the way. She has shared openly the difficult and painful moments along with the beautiful moments knowing John's life here on earth may be coming to an end. I still can't believe John rode 100 miles last September for the Bike MS Ride. He's amazing. I was blessed to see him twice in the last month and shared some laughs, held his hand and gave him a kiss on the forehead. He and Becky, by sharing this experience, have reminded us of what truly is important. I gave my kids and hubby extra big hugs this morning. We love you John. Rest in Peace my friend.

My buddy John and me at the Bike MS Atlanta Ride

The range of emotions continued with an action packed morning sending my boys off with hugs and valentines.  I felt a sense of pride that my older son puts great care into gifts for his girlfriend. My heart was warmed with beautiful flowers and gifts from my husband. But then, Greg and I sat down to read our cards. The other day I went to Greg with a card I had found on a shelf over a year ago. I told Greg that he must have bought it for me and lost it and bought another. But why not save the time and money and use that card. After all, he had once put the time into picking it out. So, he did.

I opened the card and smiled. Ah, the card! "Oh, I think you're supposed to remove the plastic." We laughed. Then I read it out loud:

You are the heart and soul at the center of my world . . . my lover and very best friend. And you have all my love. Merry Christmas.

We couldn't stop laughing. Neither of us had realized it was a Christmas card until I read that. Oh my!

My Valentine's Day Card with a Valentine's Day Poinsettia

My friend John was awesome and funny and I know he would have loved that story! So, John, I dedicate that story to you.

Give extra hard hugs today and every day. Cherish every moment. 

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you!