In Loving Memory.

Over 4th of July weekend I hosted a lovely 50th birthday party for a very dear friend of mine. We met over ten years ago when I worked at The Aerospace Corporation. We've remained good friends over the years. She had a big bash for her 40th birthday. I don't remember being there, but there are pictures to prove it. Two years ago I offered to host the 50th birthday bash. And we did with an awesome salsa theme replete with salsa dance lessons, mojitos and delicious pulled pork.

During the course of the party, I met all of her wonderful friends and family. I spent a considerable time talking to the most amazing couple about their 3 boys, remodeling backyards and their passions in life. My husband and I had a terrific day getting to know this couple. I even told my friend after the party that they were so wonderful, kind and loving.

I received an email this morning saying that they were killed in a car accident on vacation over the last weekend in July. Their three boys survived the accident unhurt losing their parents.

I am in complete shock. Personally, I hate road trips. But, running over and over in my mind, is that this is a just a smack dab real life reason to get your affairs in order.  Families with young children need to have estate planning in place. We need to name guardians for those babes (they were 3, 5, and 8 years old), have life insurance policies for them and do everything possible to minimize their grief.

May they rest in peace. May their boys have the strength and courage to mourn their parents and live their lives knowing that their parents loved them dearly.