Life, Friends, and Family

I continued to be surprised by all of the events of my life. I have spent the last two weeks traveling, celebrating, and mourning. It all began when I traveled back to Ohio to surprise my sister for her 30th birthday. It was a huge surprise to her--my presence and the intricately planned surprise party in her honor. After 48 hours of lots of fun and celebrating, I traveled back to NYC . I had become sick, so I did not work the day after I returned, and that evening I received a telephone call from my mother telling me my grandmother had passed away. Thankfully my Step-father, Mother, and Sisters were able to be with her. For me, this meant another trip back to Ohio the next day--after only being home for about 50 hours. Needless to say, I am still sick, tired, worried about deadlines at work, and my cat was ready to kill me! I was able to stay in Ohio for a week to spend time with my family. Family came in from Texas for the services, and my nephew was one of pallbearers. All went well and the time I was able to spend with family and friends gave me a renewed sense of connection to them all. My life has provided me with the amazing blessing of wonderful family and friends. These individuals are a VERY central point in my life. Many times it is difficult to be so far away from so many--all of my family is in Ohio, and I have friends scattered all of the US. I try to stay connected--at least more than just an email--but so often we all get caught up in our daily lives. One thing I make a point to do daily is talk to my mom--usually while I walk to the bus. This keeps me in touch with what is going on, and after the ups and downs of the last few weeks, this connection remains important. I know that my relationships with my family and friends are different than many others, but I do believe that it is through those I love that I see the best of me. Thanks to all of you who continue to keep me connected to you and provide my life the chance to love, laugh, vent, celebrate, and mourn. Peace and blessings, Lauren