Two Good Days

We have had two good days. That's not a bad start, if you ask me.

Today, Hannah and Haley joined me, Beth (Sandy's sister), Bobby (her brother), and Sandy's parents, Mac and Gerry, to walk the grounds at Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center. Our dog, Riley, joined us, and I was glad to have him by my side. The family that owns Genesee Valley has been long time friends and their place has come to have significant meaning to our family over the years.

We did this to scope out a place to hold the memorial. A collective decision could have been a dicey endeavor for a group that is so emotionally raw, but it is important to me that we all did it. It was a positive experience-- I actually enjoyed it and we were unanimous in our opinions that this facility is completely consistent with Sandy's intent.

Hannah and Haley embraced the activity with smiles and memories of their mom. They are certain that this will be an ideal setting where we can all gather to recognize our loss and share in the celebration. We covered a lot of ground-- the facility is large, with over 300 acres of varied terrain in rural, northern Baltimore County. The property includes open fields and hills, ponds, and woods. Riley embraced the streams and ponds, in particular.

It was Sandy's wish that she have a memorial, not a funeral. She asked that it be held outside and be marked by celebration. No dark clothes allowed-- just "summer brights," as she called them. I will share more details about her wishes as our plans are confirmed. Know that all are welcome to join us in the spirit of celebration.

Please check this site over the next 1-2 days as details are finalized. The intention is to hold the memorial & celebration at Genesee Valley during the evening of Saturday, July 12th, or Saturday, July 26th. Thank you for understanding that our schedule is pretty complicated right now. I am working to finalize plans as quickly as possible and look forward to sharing the time together.