NOTES FROM THE LODGE Sunday, June 21, 2009

First, Happy Father's Day to any Dad that might be reading this--but for those women, pass my sentiments along. I have had 20 years without my Father--he passed away just a few days before Father's Day 20 years ago. My daughter was pregnant with her first child and my first grandchild. A girl, we came to learn in November--Jessica. My daddy never knew her but would have delighted in being a great grandfather. At any rate, I still miss him and wish I could have said those words to him today.

A HUGE THANK YOU!!! The luncheon at the Purple Iris on Tuesday was, in a word--FANTASTIC. Thanks to everyone who planned and attended the event. I will get thank you notes out soon but wanted to share with everyone that it was a wonderful affair. I was so touched by all those who got up and shared a moment with me. Judy was most eloquent as an Emcee--and the food was stellar. All-in-all, a perfect occasion.

I was back at the Purple Iris again that evening for my graduation from Leadership Berkeley. So many things in my life are coming to and end. And yet, I feel like I am on the brink of life itself. The events that have unfolded for me this week have made me ever mindful that life is so brief and tenuous. We must all seize the moment and live life to its fullest and, hopefully, along the way make a difference in the world. If you saw my face on TV or my name in the paper--I did not choose or seek that moment, but circumstances put me in a place that gave me that moment. I have tried to search within myself to figure out why I was there. I hope that it gives me the courage and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others so that a senseless and cruel act can help someone in the future.

Nutmeg Lodge was not open for business this past week, however, on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday those wonderful staff members will be in sorting and organizing the final items. If you have Saturday Sampler kits to pick up or fixtures to pick up, you can do so on those days. It is still best to call just to make sure there is someone there. The gals will be calling to let you know what the schedule is if you are on a list for things needed to be picked up.

As I have stated before, the web site will continue until it is melded into the site for Robyn Pandolph Design Studio. The blog will continue here and then there.

It has been my pleasure to have known so many of you. I plan to be around and should always be accessable to each of you.

Barbara