Our dear friend, Maura, was recently diagnosed with terminal Pancreatic cancer and we've learned the illness is racing ahead; creating an unpredictable but undeniably early exit for her, from this stage we're graced to act on. It is an absolute fact, that Ms. Maura is, quite simply - one of the best acts out there - in EVERY possible way.

Though what we now face is complex...in actuality, overall, all-in-all, it's quite simply this...

Chef Maura has been feeding us: her friends, family, loved-ones, clients, strangers, and community members for decades. But she doesn't simply create delectable, culinary crafts...she also sustains those around her through her genuine, kind, caring, selfless, intelligent, funny, strong, (nearly) unbreakable body, inspiring mind, and unrelenting spirit. She does so with humor, grace, and creativity; and above all - without a dash of judgement, a splash of resentment, or a pinch of expectation in return. Maura feeds us because, quite simply, she CARES. And she cares BIG!

So I now propose we follow in her footsteps, take her lead, and band together in care. Let's give this bad-ass woman the happiest, healthiest, warmest, most magical and musical, most comfortable and convenient version of her life moving forward.

I'm asking that we place acts of love here, and put into motion opportunities to honor this lady legend - which will translate into meals when she needs to eat, music when she needs to dance, travel when she wants to move, pillows when she needs to rest. Funds would be used for everyday living expenses, increased care needs, and achieving final wishes. But basically, anything her big, beautiful heart desires.

Unsurprisingly, Maura wants to keep spreading her love too. We're going to take, gather, and share lots of pictures of happy moments from a life well-lived! We hope it helps keep us all connected, current, and included in her epic story. We are also planning a yard sale that is sure to be filled with cooky, colorful, cool, Maura treasures. And we'll host a few lively auctions to engage and entertain her tribe while sending off some of the most special Maura mementos: re-establishing them for their future glory days.

Maura would love to hear from folks! She'll be responding to messages, posting blogs and videos, and surely keeping us all laughing!

You can stay looped into all of this at: www.youreup.life

Maura tells me now: most of us don't get the luxury of knowing the plan and getting to graciously and gloriously take full advantage of our time here, especially in light of having such complete awareness. I think for us, therefore, this may mean we've also been gifted a cosmic opportunity - to act with intention and with additional incentive, to put nothing off until tomorrow. Quite simply, we have this time to focus on celebrating our Marvelous Maura...and we should start TODAY...!

With my respect, gratitude, and (BIG) care -

Sarah Catherine Finkner

"The time has come

My (fellow) friends

To talk of food and things

Of peppercorns and mustard seeds

And other seasonings

We'll mix 'em all together

In a sauce that's fit for kings

Callo-Callay

We'll eat today

Like cabbages and kings!"

-"Alice In Wonderland"