A few weeks ago my husband and I, for the second time, loaded up our baked mac & cheese and headed to Goshen to get to know the people at Ryan’s Place a little better.  You see the first time was a week earlier.  Of course, I somehow got the dates mixed up and baked a dish and drove to Goshen to reread my email that said it was, in fact, a week later.  Oh well, I shared my mac & cheese with some loved ones and enjoyed side free cooking for a few days, so it all worked out.

As we arrived on yet another rainy day I said a little prayer that the rain would give us a window to do the balloon release.  After a wonderful dinner, we chit chatted about accents since mine is always a topic of conversation and Aileac, the Executive Director, has a strong Irish accent that left me in awe.  I love accents.  I got the chance to meet the founder of Ryan’s Place and talk to him about how he dreamed up such a wonderful concept.  You can read more about the history of Ryan’s Place here.  We spoke of all the wonderful things they provide for our local community and the surrounding areas.  I learned they are the only organization of their kind near so they cover a vast area.  It’s kind of crazy we don’t have more programs like it but I’m thankful for the one we are fortunate to have.

We chit chatted a bit more while everyone got into groups and talked about their summer plans.  Thankfully the rain let up just long enough for us to do a quick balloon release as a symbol of love and remembrance of those close to us that we had lost.  If you don’t know what Ryan’s Place does, PLEASE check it out here.   This organization is such a blessing to so many.  Grief is something that will affect all of us at some time in life and organizations like Ryan’s Place make a huge difference to those that need a little extra love and care to say good-bye to ones they loved so much.

With the rain barely drizzling we headed outside to do the balloon release.  We stood in a circle and said the name of the person or persons that we would like to recognize and then release.  It’s such an awe-inspiring moment to watch those balloons fly into the heavens.  It’s almost surreal.

Here are a few photos from the release.

I have some SUPER EXCITING NEWS…WE’RE PUTTING ON A FASHION SHOW. WHAT!?!?! I know right.  Yes, you heard us right.  We have teamed up with Ryan’s Place and First Friday to put on an all local fashion show.  This show will feature small businesses from around Elkhart County.  We’re going to have some sweet jams, food, gorgeous models, make-up and high fashion.  We are SO EXCITED about this event.  To top it all off…we’re doing it for charity.  That’s right.  I am a firm believer in supporting your community in any way you can.  Great communities come from a lot of hard work and a lot of willing occupants, so we are taking all the proceeds from our show and giving them to Ryan’s Place so they can continue to serve in our community and schools.  See the flyer below for details about the show.  If you would like to know how you can help please email or text me.  We can’t do it alone so any help will be greatly appreciated.

As always, I love you all.  Thank you so much for your continued support.  I always say I have the best followers EVER because it’s the TRUTH!