I’m filled with a feeling of gratitude after recent events. So many beautiful things have happened. So many acts of kindness and generosity and love. So much support and encouragement. For me personally, for my family, for humankind. I am filled with the beauty and power of everyone standing together. It is uplifting to see the light shining so brightly! So, thank you!

I want to thank the women who made me feel safe enough to go to the march, in spite of my fears. Thank you for watching out for me the whole time we were there and for the hugs and kind words. I want to thank everyone who marched alongside me in Denver – you were sweet and funny and warm, and your signs were punny and wise and inspiring. Thanks to the police who kept watch and cheered us on, to the volunteers and organizers, and the encouraging Uber driver who got us close as he possibly could and sent us off with well wishes. Thanks to those who marched in other cities around the world and kept it beautiful and classy – absolutely no violent incidents, property damage, or arrests as far as I know. I truly felt that we were all connected in our efforts and am delighted to know that so many of us share the same views. Thanks to those who kept the home fires burning and made it possible for those who went out to march for us all. Thanks for the supportive phone calls and conversations, the messages and hugs. For many of us it was a hard decision whether to step out or stay home – please let’s not shame or blame anyone for their decision; each choice took courage and every action is equally valid. This march is only one of many ways that we are standing up, making our voices heard, and refusing to be bullied. We are all fierce and strong in so many every day ways.

More personally, I also want to say thank you to all the wonderful people who made the birthday party we hosted over the weekend a wonderful success. Thanks to all who helped bake, draw, cut, stick, hang, chop, serve, and celebrate. And thank you to our thoughtful guests, who made the time to be here, to help clean up, to share a drink, to smile together. And who showed real care for the birthday boys through their presence and their presents. Every gift we opened was carefully chosen for the recipient, matching his personality, interests, hobbies. I was moved by all the thought and love that went into the choices. We were truly showered with affection and kindness; thank you all!

And finally, deep thanks for your support of me since I have embarked on this journey of writing and sharing every day thoughts and challenges. I strive to be honest and authentic (and a little bit funny), and sometimes it’s scary to share my feelings, but when I hear someone agree, or share their own version of the story, I feel comforted and less alone. Your support, encouragement, kind words, replies, commiseration, appreciation, and participation inspire me to keep going and to keep working to connect us as we bumble through the (sometimes very long) days, as mothers, women, people of the world. I love the community we are building and hope we can keep it going!

Thank you for walking with me.