October 2, 2015

Dear Parents/Guardians,

There was a time in my life (I think around the age of 14) when I couldn’t wait to be an adult and have my own place.  Well, now I hear myself saying, “Boy, I wish I were a kid again!”  Being an adult is far more challenging than I ever imagined.  The stress, workload, and inability to make things better for friends are all things you don’t consider when you are younger.

This week has been a whirlwind.  With the help of a few members of the Facilities Committee, we collaborated so that I was ready to provide a presentation to the School Board on September 28.  Yesterday morning, I met with Superintendent Buckley and other SAU personnel in order to submit both DES and NHCS 2016-17 school budgets.  I have spent some time this week in Vermont, bringing over meals to help a friend in need.  On Thursday night, I returned to Southbury, CT to be present for, and support, my college roommate/volleyball teammate at her mother’s wake and funeral.  I am waiting to hear from a friend who had a recent doctor’s appointment.  By the end of the week, I will have put over 600 miles on my car, traveling to various places within New England.  Yikes!  I often think to myself that since I am single, with no kids, I am fortunate to have the flexibility of traveling to these areas to check in on friends.  I really don’t know how parents do all of it!

I am in awe as to the strength of the human spirit and soul.  I have watched a family share both tears and laughter while remembering a loved one.  I have witnessed my friend waking up each morning, willing to put her best foot forward while dealing with a challenge that has become, for her, far greater than losing both of her parents.  I am reminded that “showing-up” does matter and can make someone’s day a little better.  

So tonight, I will end my week in Windham, Maine, and I am looking forward to receiving a hug from my big brother!

Have a great weekend,