Going through some old archived photos and I came across this one (far left) of Carson and me when he was just a few months old. Holding him was, and remains, one of my favorite things. Carson, you are an incredibly sweet, kind, funny and smart young man. Every time I have to say goodbye to you after a visit, my heart breaks. Your tears bring me to tears. But you need to know that your aunt has you in her heart all the time. You are with me always. And today, on your sixth birthday, I wish you all the joy in the world. I can't wait to see you again next week! I will give you hugs and kisses and cuddles ... I love you, Carson!
In my freshman year at Helix High, I was blessed to meet a woman who has changed my life. Denise Hume was my PE teacher that year and for the next three years, I was lucky enough to remain under her advisement. Twenty years after my high-school graduation, Mrs. H remains one of the very few heroes I have in life. She's a hero to me because she cares ... she's always been there when I need advice, whether it's about family, job or whether or not to take chemotherapy ... she dedicates herself to serving others and being an example of kindness, humor and love ... and she was the one who gave me my nickname twenty-four years ago, Crazy Legs (don't ask!).
"There are those whose lives affect all others around them. Quietly touching one heart, who in turns, touches another. Reaching out to ends further than they would ever know." (William Bradfield). I am the woman I am today partly because of her influence in my life. Today, as she celebrates her birthday, I hope she knows how very much I love and admire her and appreciate all she has been in my life. Happy Birthday, Mrs. H. Love you more. - Legs
Today marks the 8 year wedding anniversary of my friends, Jeff and Julia Freeland. Thank you both for blessing my life with your friendship and welcoming me into your extended family. You have created a beautiful family and it's an honor to have you in my life. Happy Anniversary!
Today, I honor my cousin and friend, Helen. We've been pen-pals for over twenty years and last summer, she and her brother, Rob, came to Sacramento. I was fortunate to spend a week with them, touring Sac, San Francisco, Yosemite and watching Rob participate in the WMA Championships. It was so fun to spend that time with them! Helen is a teacher, compassionate and funny. I love her spirit and devotion to the kids she teaches. So, today, I send you wishes for another year of fun, love and adventure ... With love from one Andrew to another!
This is my niece, Avery Cait. She is ten years old and has the heart of an angel. She took my cancer diagnosis in 2009 very hard. She is happy now that I am in remission and reminds me to eat fruits, vegetables and lots of antioxidants. She wears a pink bracelet in my honor and for the past couple years, she has carved ribbons into pumpkins in the fall. She is growing up so quickly and I hate that part of her youth had to include her aunt getting cancer. But, she has taught me so much through this experience. She is full of love, hope and compassion. I fight on against this terrible disease called breast cancer because I do not ever want her life to be touched by it in any way, shape or form. I love you, Avery Cait and am so proud to be your aunt!
