Happy Heavenly birthday to Tom! He would’ve turned 66 this week! Big brother Joe’s birthday was a couple weeks ago so I’m sure there has been much celebrating going on in Heaven!  

As Tom watches over me and our children, I know he is very pleased and grateful to everyone for continuing to love and support us as we try to move forward and adjust to our new normal. We have truly been blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives!

We had an amazing Celebration of Tom’s Life last June. The evening was perfect – great weather, beautiful decorations, Tom’s favorite music and, of course, some of his favorite foods! The kids and I enjoyed visiting and reminiscing with family members and friends. It was fun to hear the many special memories and stories everyone had to share!

After dinner, we heard from a few special speakers: Tom’s brothers Jim and Joe (Jim read Joe’s speech), our youngest son Jeff (with big brother Jason’s support), and two of our best friends, Jon Ketola and Tom Steinmetz. We ended the evening serving one of Tom’s favorite desserts, and Jason and Jeff did a toast!

Luckily, a few people had their phones handy and Julie was able to put together a video of the speeches and toast. Here is the link https://youtu.be/0WtDEnbkKA4.

The kids and I brought Tom’s ashes up to the cabin 4^th of July weekend. We placed his beautiful urn in a very special place - his happy place!

Tom, I hope you are having a wonderful birthday in Heaven!  This week has been filled with many special memories of birthday celebrations we have shared throughout the years. I look forward to sharing celebrations with you when we are back together again!