On Sunday, 5/18, I completed something that in my heart I had dedicated to you...I ran my first full marathon with Paul. 26.2 miles. Before you passed you had told me how proud you were of me for running, something I never thought I could do in a million years. I wanted to show you that I haven't forgotten the pride you expressed to me and that I would take the ultimate adventure in your honor. I trained hard for 4.5 months. Pushing myself harder than I ever thought possible. What kept me going during the training and during the actual event was you. I could see you encouraging me with every step, with every mile. There was a point during the marathon that I felt that I had disappointed you because I had to slow down and walk...I almost cried. Looking back at it a few days later I realized I had put too much pressure on myself and that you would be proud of me no matter what. I wish you could have been there to watch me cross the finish line. Maybe you were? I love you. I miss you. Di

My JoJo – It’s now a month since you left and I’m still a mess. The absolutely wonderful celebration of “YOU” last weekend has softened my emotions. So many memories were opened by our family and friends that I can’t begin to express my gratitude to them. The love and respect you gathered in your short life is amazing and I am so thankful I was able to share our time together. Cherisse and Scott did a wonderful job putting your Memorial Day together and it was completely enjoyed by everyone lucky enough to be there. Di, Paul, Jordan, and Jake have the daily chore of keeping my spirits up and they are doing a great job, with difficult odds. I miss you so much and look forward to a time I can think of you without tears in my eyes. Dean

Mom, I thought it was funny how your ashes showed up 20 min before Dean was going to leave for your memorial on Saturday. Just like you to not miss a party! ;) I hope that you approved of the gathering. Cherisse did a beautiful job with the planning. Scott, who mc'ed, was so polished that some of the guests thought we hired him! I hope you are proud of my boys, Paul and Jacob, for getting up and speaking in front of the 100+ people that came to celebrate your life. They were both so sensitive, yet funny, as we have come to expect from those two. As for me, I didn't want to have any regrets about your special day. I am terrified of speaking in public but I wanted to honor you. I read a poem letting you know that I love you and I will miss you, but I will go on living my life, even though it seems very hard right now. You have so many friends and family near and far that love you. It was so nice to see everyone, but I wish it were under different circumstances. I miss you! Di