This post is probably not going to be very exciting, but I want to say a few things about my family and my support system. With me working full time and having class three nights a week, I am depending upon a lot of people right now.

Mia and Louisa are pretty much running the show at school and at home. Mikey is working lots, as always, and I am generally gone. My time at home is limited to weekends and two nights a week. During that time I have to do lots of school work and try to keep this house in order.

If it were not for those awesome people, none of this would be possible. My family has stepped up to my new grad school adventure without question. The kids are so supportive of me, it is mind-boggling. I have not heard a single complaint from any of them! And Mikey, who is probably even more ignored than usual, has been behind this whole process without question.

Far too often, I forget to speak my gratitude. So right now, on this day of remembrance for the lives lost September 11, 2001, I want to make sure to remember the amazing support I have. Mikey, Louisa and Mia, thank you. You have made my whole world blessed. I love you.

I would like to mention a couple more people while I’m at it. First, August has been such a great support. Even though they are far away, they have been a cheerleader for me and remind me when I start to feel like I don’t do enough that I have done the important stuff. 🙂 Thank you, August. I love you so much!

Now my parents…. okay, here’s the thing with my parents. They are amazing, which anyone who has ever met them, is something they will attest to. Bill and Jan McGrath have been married almost 62 years, have 8 kids, 23 grand kids and 9 great-grand kids! They have loved us all through all sorts of ups and downs. I am sure they long ago lost count of the number of graduations, baptisms, first communions and the like that they have attended. But even more than that, they have been there for me through some seriously tough times.

I cannot even imagine how hard it was for them to watch me as my marriage crumbled. I know it pained them to see the turmoil that the kids and I had to go through. They were there to help with child care, errands, transporting kids places, attending meetings when I couldn’t, doctor appointments, and more. I can’t imagine that they imagined that when they were in the 70s and now 80s they would be so involved in my life. Others may not want that from their parents. I am beyond grateful. My kids are blessed with a true relationship with their grandparents, and I have an open and caring friendship with them that I never thought possible.

They embraced Mikey; they helped me through my gastric bypass; and now, while they are mostly retired and home-bound, they are 100% in my corner with grad school. They leave their house no more than once a day, but they have continued to transport Mia to her weekly therapy appointments. They are my cheering section and my emotional support. Mom and Dad, thank you. I love you guys so much.

I never want to forget how blessed I truly am. And to all of you who support me in other ways, thank you too. I would be so lost without you guys cheering me on, picking up slack and helping my kids out when I simply can’t be there.

Team, you are all awesome and I just wanted you to know it. I really do love you!