September 25, 2007

Darrin's mom, "Stella", came into town on last Thursday and stayed until Sunday a.m. While the guys got to soak up the Nanny Stella love, they also were able to charm her into cooking Stromboli, chicken and waffles, spaghetti, meat loaf and casseroles. They even saved me left-overs.......mm mm mm mm good!

The purpose of Stella's visit was to help out Darrin while I went to NYC. Darrin had given me the best birthday present ever by sending me and Kelly to NYC, tickets to see Jersey Boys and putting us up in the Crowne Plaza on Time Square.....He's a fabulous man!

Since the diagnosis, I vacillated between deciding to go or staying home. I didn't want to miss a day with the kids or Darrin. Darrin and Kelly kindly, but firmly, let me know that I WAS going. If I didn't, I'd regret it. I have to say, they were right. Getting away from home was exactly what I needed. I was able to enjoy myself and not think about the "what ifs". The hotel was awesome, the play phenomenal (BEST Broadway production I've ever seen!) and the company soothing. We were able to sight-see, by utilizing the double-decker bus. I don't think I could have made it walking around that city for long. Just getting to the bus and play were tough enough. Kelly and I became experts at determining who were New Yorkers, and who were tourists. New Yorkers were skinny from all that walking!

It was during the trip to NYC that I realized that I was going to have to tell MWR that I wouldn't be back. I think I knew this for awhile, but admitting it was hard. Saying it to my boss was even harder. I've worked with these people for 7 1/2 years. I consider them my friends. I enjoyed going to work everyday, loved my job and especially the people that I worked with. Having to say that I won't be able to come back was (and still is) extremely difficult. To say I was emotional was an understatement. I fully intend to see you guys as often as I can. I just have to be able to not be a blubbering idiot when that happens....which may take a few more days :) Please don't stop calling or emailing. I need to hear from you all.