It Takes a Village

My dad was supposed to leave yesterday, but his flight was cancelled.  Second time is a charm, hopefully, and at this moment he is about two hours into his flight to San Francisco. 

What's the saying? "It Takes a Village." How true.  Allow me to highlight some very special villagers.

My mom and dad--In their 44 years of marriage, they have never been apart for this long (all told, two weeks and one day).  I am sorry to be the sponsor of their separation,  but I am so thankful that my dad could be here.  It truly lifted the weight on my head and my heart to just know he was on his way.  He provided the help we needed and Kyle and I can't thank you guys enough, and my mom was such a good sport about going it alone and holding down the fort. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

A little light reading

My mother in law Sandy--the whole time my health situation was going on, she was dealing with the death of her father.  Even though she was helping to plan her dad's memorial service, engaged in meetings finalizing his estate, organizing and reviewing his personal effects and closing on the sale of his house, she somehow still made time for us. When we talked  and asked how she was coping, she was more concerned making sure that we were okay.  Most importantly, Sandy was completely understanding that Kyle couldn't make it to the service.  She insisted to Kyle that he was exactly where he should be and encouraged me to focus on getting better.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Sandy and Natey

Also, a very special thanks goes out to our friend Jill Munger.  The Mungers and the Bupps go waaaaaay back.  Jill is a high level flight attendant at United Airlines.  She, without hesitation, honored my parents' request to use her companion pass, selected the lightest flight loads for easy travel and emailed her coworkers to make sure they took special care of my dad on his journery.  She did ALL this while recovering from a severe fall that has her at home recovering.

It's because of Jill that my dad was able to fly out to Seoul at--literally--a moment's notice to help with Nathan.  It's because of Jill that Kyle and I could breathe a sigh of relief knowing that help/family was on the way.  It's also because of Jill that my bridesmaids all had hand strung pearls with matching earrings that she personally secured on one of her trips.  It's also because of Jill that my "dream home" is one with two staircases and a big kitchen that has booth seating.  I can still remember drinking hot chocolate at that booth after Christmas caroling.  Jill, you are the best.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.

The send off (round one)

:)sbc