two more stories…

I didn’t write about two Christmas parties I went to this year. These experiences were WONDERFUL and must be shared. This isn’t as much an oversight as something that I thought should be written about separately. Plus I didn’t have time last time and the last installment was already WAY too long!!

The first was at Dave and Teresa’s house. They were hosting a party for Dave’s colleagues at Keller Williams Realty.  I have never met these folks and yet, when they heard about the accident, they rallied for me and gave donations to Dave to pass on to us. And not just once. There were many occassions that Dave would bring an envelope by the house even after I got home.  Anyway, we packed everyone up in the van and drove up the street to their home. They were having part of the festivities in the garage (awards ceremony) and so I rolled in there for a bit. I got to meet and personally thank them for their thoughts and help. It really meant a lot to me. It was quite overwhelming actually. I talked to a few people, gave some hugs, and thanked everyone but when I started to speak I choked. I could only muster a thanks. I hope they all know how much I truly appreciate their warmth and help despite my lack of ability to accurately convey it!!!

The other Christmas party I went to was the annual party that Drs. Lust have at their home for the Physiology department. Jess and Laura came to the house to make sure I could get the kids together and to help me unload and look after them once there. Well, when we arrived, Laura’s husband Gene took the ramp out of the back but it wouldn’t reach up the steps. So Bob and Rob and a few others had me lock up my wheels and pulled a Cleopatra dais manuever on me! Strange to entrust myself to others to that degree (and worse coming down – I closed my eyes!!!) but it was well worth it!! The kids had a blast- Encsi managed to finagle chocolate/sweets from pretty much everyone, and there were plenty of other kids there for them to play with. I got to talk to people I don’t get to see very much and it was really a lovely evening. Thsi was the first time I have seen Carol Lust since I got home. It was very nice, although the words still don’t make it past the lump in my throat to thank her and Bob for what they did for me.  I am sorry that Jani had to miss it although things certainly would have been different if my Hungarian lift was there! I am fortunate to work with such good (and strong!) people who are clever and willing to help me out.

So I continue to have lots of thanks to give!!!