Unfortunately, little Cecily was not as lucky. The winding car rides and new sleeping quarters caused her some anxiety and it took its toll. She is having a rough week upon our return and she picked up a lovely little bug. But she is a trooper and a fighter and after a few hard days she appears to be turning the corner. Our fingers are crossed for better days ahead.
I am exhausted. There, I said it. So for all those people that are telling me to slow down I am officially taking that advice... as soon we we finish this weekend's room makeover. Despite having too much on my plate Cecily's Closet fills our life with so much joy and so much encouragement. We see volunteers, people we have never even met before, slaving away for the betterment of children with special needs. We receive donations on furniture from strangers who support our mission and it fills our hearts with so much joy. We are meeting new people and seeing how wonderful people can be. It is very inspiring - especially when contrasted with corporate America. (and I owe my career to corporate America so I am not bagging - just merely saying that sometimes it does not bring out the best in everyone!)
I can't believe that we are working on our 17th and 18th room makeovers. Cecily's Closet seemed like a dream not that long ago and now it is really a full-fledged operation. We are making mistakes and learning as we go but we are learning! We are passionate. We are excited. And yes, we are a little exhausted. I think the hardest thing is accepting help and asking for it. I have never been good at either of those things but we know that in order to keep this little operation moving forward that we will have to say yes to help more often.
My parents continue to amaze and inspire me. They are not spring chickens but they have more energy than most 20 year olds... and they definitely have a zest and a passion for life, love and giving. My Dad donated his day to Cecily's Closet - installing a chandelier and figuring out answers to tricky, sticky issues with our room makeover. He is always there. And my Mom, who is in the midst of chemo, is likely at this very moment hemming curtains for the same room. She sews, she creates, she dedicates herself to me and our family. Cecily's Closet would not exist without the dedication of my Mom and Dad. They are a force - my guiding force, my strength and my support. If only we could clone them for everyone else. We are so grateful to Mom and Dad, aka Grammy and Grampy, aka Chief Seamstress, aka Chief Engineer, aka contractor, engineer, friend, and my giving parental unit. Most families who work with us know that my Mom and Dad are the backbone of our operation.
AND we are just so grateful to have the support of our community. We adore our community partners. We love our artists and painting friends. This week as we collaborate with a new corporate partner, UPS, we are filled with hope for the future of Cecily's Closet. We have had a wild ride. We are grateful. And we see even better things ahead... Onwards and upwards!