Remebering Julie on Nov. 30

This is a difficult time of year. For me, it brings back the troubling, sad memories of Julie's death. However, I prefer to try to focus my attention on her life instead. Julie lived life to the fullest. Despite her struggles with depression and disability, she always had a smile to share, a hug to give, and a helping hand to lend.

I will always remember Julie's life in a positive light. It is impossible for me not to do so. She brought so much happiness into my life and taught me how to enjoy simple pleasures (our favorite pastime was as simple as drinking a hot mug of Yerba Matte mixed with vanilla soy milk and honey).

In rememberance of Julie, I wish to either plant a tree or build a bench in the Arboretum. The Arb, of course, was one of Julie's favorite spots in Ann Arbor. We used to routinely pass through the Arb on our weekly runs together during college. She spent one evening "camping" in the Arb during college and, although I did not participate in this particular event, I know that she treasured that evening. She would sit by the water and write in her journal or just talk to those passing by. I remember going to the Arb with Julie and her dog Blue. It gave Julie so much pleasure to appreciate nature and watch Blue play in the woods.

A gift to the Arb is quite expensive. But I believe that it will give those of us who remember Julie a place to go, possibly even a place to sit, and remember her life in a positive way. If you remember Julie and would like to contribute to this Arb project, please send me an e-mail at: lawyersara@yahoo.com

I will update this blog with progress on the "Arb donation project" and let you know how it is progressing. I will also let you know the date of the "unveiling," when we can bring flowers and letters to the Arb and celebrate Julie's life together.

Thank you for reading and please feel free to leave comments as well.

Sara