Many of you already know that Clary and I moved back to my hometown of Lincoln, Nebraska this past spring. After a couple of really challenging years, we’re doing well and have been lucky enough to make some wonderful new friends. One family in particular has truly looked out for us. Since it’s usually just Clary and me (while John stays in Kansas City to help care for his aging parents) their kindness and support have meant more to us than I can put into words.

Raising a school-aged child while working full time isn’t always easy, especially at this stage of life, and this family has made a real difference for us. They’ve shown up in ways that matter.

Recently, though, the husband left, and my dear friend is now trying to make ends meet while raising five kids on her own. December is also an especially hard month for her, marking the anniversaries of losing both her best friend and her mother in different years. She’s incredibly strong, but I know how badly she is hurting, in so many ways. She’s doing everything she can, from selling what she has to taking on extra work, and pushing forward for her kids. She is an amazing person and an incredible mother. I don’t judge anyone involved in this situation. I just want to help her and her children however possible.

Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and sometimes they hit us square in the head. We get bruised, worn down, and emotionally exhausted, but we keep going for the people we love. She’s tired of having to be strong all the time, and I know many of us understand that feeling.

If you’re able to donate anything at all, please know that even the smallest amount would help more than you might realize. And if you can’t contribute financially but would like to help in another way, please reach out to me.

Your support, kindness, and thoughtfulness mean so much.

Sending love and hugs to all of you.