Hi,

Two months have passed yet it seems like yesterday. The loss of Simmon has been devastating for our family and the ripple effect has proven to spread for miles, as friends from childhood, colleagues across the country, and even friends-of-friends have reached out to express their sympathy. I will miss him everyday of my life, with this loss, I am also able to recognize with incredible gratitude what I have gained over the past 18 years together. It’s a beautiful love story that reads of contentment, excitement and ease, equality, appreciation, and unconditional love. His legacy of kindness continues on through all of us.

The common question asked is “how are you and the kids doing”. This is not a stupid question by the way. We are finding the silver lining and continue to feel joy for what we have, but we also have bad days, sad days, and mad days. Sophia (age 9) and Carson (age 8) are both in grief groups for kids their age who have also lost a parent or a close family member. They seem to be finding comfort in sharing about daddy and listing to other kiddos share stories as well.  Briana (age 25) is also doing the best she can, losing her dad on the brink of so many adult milestones is unfathomable to me. She is thriving in her career and Si would be so proud of her.  I’m taking care of myself too, seeking therapy, Grief Share, and leaning on our village for support in several ways. God is at the forefront of it all.

If you see us out and about, if our kids play together or go to school together. It’s okay to ask how we are. It’s okay for your child to share their sympathy with my children and say, “I’m sorry you lost your Daddy”. It’s one of the most beautiful things to see among children.  

I will be planning a Zoom memorial in the coming weeks, maybe month, I have not set a date yet since I’m still working through logistics. If you would like the link to join the memorial, please send me an email at caitmariani@gmail.com Subject: Simmon’s Memorial - Attendee. This will save me time digging for email addresses :). 

Finally, I want to thank EVERYONE who has continued to check in on us, sent texts, sent cards, kept us in your prayers, kept us fed, sent donations through Go-Fund-Me, sent gifts and gift cards. Though I have not sent ‘thank you’ cards, please know I see it and appreciate it beyond words can express.

With all our Mariani love, thank you!

Caitlin