Father's Day...This weekend is going to be a rough one.  I feel so helpless when it comes to Emily.  I miss Craig so much too.  I would always plan something for this day...a BBQ or dinner out, something.  Shop for just the right gift and card.  Now going and buying cards for my dad and his dad was VERY difficult!  I did have to wipe away a few tears in the aisle of Hallmark.  Especially when I passed by the "To My Husband" section.  

It also difficult because it is the first time I haven't had MY dad here for a very long time.  Plus I sent him a card and it had all the words and sentiment that I wanted him to know...but I just don't think he will understand.  So it is kind of a double loss this year.  I can't even call my dad because I don't think he would REALLY know me if I talked to him on the phone.  So I card and some cookies will have to do.... I just hope deep down he knows I love him!

I leave for the symposium on Wednesday.  My speech is written and I have read it to several people and they have given me the thumbs up.  So I am done trying to change and perfect it anymore, I am just going with it.  It is really just from the heart and I hope it inspires some people too!  I also have gathered a lot of ammunition for the Senators and Congressman.  I have tried to be nice the last few years.  This year, I am going with more fire in my belly.  I won't yell and scream, but I WILL show pictures and I will have Craig's ashes around my neck, HOPEFULLY that will make them listen a bit more intently. After the symposium I will ask Carol to post my speech, as I have had several people want to hear/read it.  But, I don't want EVERYONE to know what I am going to say or they will be bored at the acceptance speech

Cruise-Loring and Mary Jane Williams along with several of their friends are going to the Mediterranean in October and invited me to join them.  Well I was hesitant at first, but then my good friend Lisa Blanzy said she would go with me   So we are going from the 12-27. We will be going to Spain (2 days), Venice (2 days), France, Italy (Florence & Cannes), Croatia and Greece. I may have forgotten a port!!  But I am excited!!  It will be over mine and Craig's 29th anniversary on Oct. 25. so that will be good!

So I have been keeping busy making reservations and looking at ports and such.  Also, not being a very good writer, my speech has taken me quite a while to write and rewrite. 

I wish all of you a Happy Father's Day.  Keep Emily close to your heart.

Believing!!!!!   Shelly