Mesothelioma

A few weeks back, a woman contacted me wanting to do a collaboration.  I glanced through the email, thought it was for a good cause, and quickly said yes without fully researching and reading about what she had to say.

I had heard the term Mesothelioma, but I didn't really know what it was.  And when I had a spare moment weeks later, I learned what it was AND what an amazing woman this was, that had contacted me.

So first:  What is it?
Mesothelioma (or, more precisely, malignant mesothelioma) is a rare form of cancer that develops from cells of the mesothelium, the protective lining that covers many of the internal organs of the body. Mesothelioma is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos.

This is Heather.  She is a bad ass.  (Sorry for the swearing, but there is no other word for it.)

This post was originally to bring awareness to mesothelioma, but instead turned into one about a woman who can inspire us all with her attitude, resilience, and ability to be grateful. 

Friday Kid Happy Hour

When this showed up at my door, it made my day.  

I have been waiting for this since we moved from Bath 4 years ago.  One of the kids yelled "Kid Party!" when I opened the door, Friday after school.  It wasn't scheduled, they just came down to hang out.  The kids played, ran around, laughed, there may have been some nerf guns involved... 

Then they all sat down for dinner/snacks before everyone had to go home.  I love how they all play together, regardless of age or gender.

I love my neighborhood.

Back to School 2015

I always try to make the first morning before school starts special for the kiddos.

I decorate, I leave them a little present, and make them something special to eat.  Tate decided he wanted FOUR eggs.  

He ate them all.  

She was very excited!  It was very hot in the school, so I put the least amount of clothing as possible on her.  Day 2 cooled down, so the kids were much more comfortable.  

On the Friday after the first week, Soleil was exhausted.  She could barely stay awake!

We live on the campus of a Big 10 university.  This means that every Saturday morning in the fall, we are "indoor tailgating".   Football is on all day, and meals are snacks enjoyed throughout the day.  When there is a home game, we usually wander around through the other tailgaters in our neighborhood.  Parking and driving is awful, but if you are on foot, it is really fun.  

Tate with random kids, climbing the statue on campus.

And finally...

Soleil's Glitter Acorns