Introducing a good friend, and a few tidbits......

Our good Friend, Nancy Parks, or as the kids refer to her, Auntsy Nancy, lived in Canada. A very long way from Tucson.  Our kids had gone to school with each other, and we had become great friends. Even at a distance, it never mattered. Seemed like no matter how much time had passed, we could pick right up and never miss a beat.

I met Nancy at our kids school. She was one of the Original "Mama's" that we spent time with. Other Moms, like still-great-friend, Maggie Cotton, Nancy, and others, spent many hours together as our kids grew up.  Our oldest kids were relatively the same age, and in many cases, in the same classes at school.  This gave us all an opportunity to become good friends, work on projects and committees at school, but most of all, spend fun times together.  I'll admit, yes, we drank a lot in those days, lots of pool parties and late nights, but we all knew we could count on each other in a moment's notice. And, we were all good friends.  Always good stories to tell! And a whole lot of laughter was shared!

That friendship hasn't changed.  The night of my heart attack, Nancy was far away. But only geographically.  Nancy communicated with my husband, Brad, every day, and kept a log on CaringBridge.com with updates on my progress.  These updates allowed many friends and family, near and far, to stay posted, without having to call.  I know that Brad was already overwhelmed with the status of things, and trying to keep the kids and himself all together.  I am thankful that "Auntsy Nancy" was able to lift some of the burden of communicating from his daily tasks.

Throughout this blog, you will read excerpts of those updates.  Not only were they helpful to those wanting to keep updated, but many months, and even years later, I read and re-read the posts.  I find myself seeking understanding.  It's funny.  As I read the posts, I am able to "fill in the blanks" from my perspective. This truly has allowed, and continues to allow, me to fit the pieces together.

Some days are easier than others. Some are harder. But, either way, I have DAYS.   These are blessings. Each and every one of them.