What is one way you honor your grief?  

Laughter! The boys and I find every moment possible to embrace our grief and laugh as much as possible. When things get tough, we support each other, hold space for one another, and simply love even bigger. We try to light Chinese lanterns at least once a year. We have created new family traditions (cutting our own Christmas tree and attending the Yuletide Celebration) as a way to honor Travis and spend extra special time together during the holidays.

What is one activity that you and your loved one would enjoy doing together?

It's been so long I almost don't remember. We loved being together as a family. He was my best friend, so naturally we did everything together! He loved all things cars, so we often went to races. We enjoyed getting together with friends and family. We played darts and pool. He loved to watch ESPN and Comedy Central while I read a book. We cooked together and cleaned together. We loved to travel. Most of all, we loved being parents together and spending time with the kids.

What is a food you and your loved one would share together?

Travis made fettuccine alfredo on our first date. It became a popular dish in our house, though I became the one to cook it since he said I made it better than he did lol. Most nights we simply shared a meal from the grill... chicken and veggies

What is one word you would use to describe Brooke's Place?

Safe-haven

What is your history/story/connection to Brooke's Place?

We (Jackson, Alex and myself) started attending group night in September of 2011.  We attended for a little more than 8 years. Both boys participated in the grief counseling services offered at Brooke's Place at one point or another. Both Jackson and Alex have attended at least one Camp Healing Tree. We have attended more Brooke's Place fishing outings than I can remember, and have even been out on Mr. Jordan's boat because of it. I have been volunteering for the Hope Fore Tomorrow golf outing most every year for about 10 years. Brooke's Place became a refuge for me and for the boys. It was so wonderful knowing we had a safe place to grieve and to feel "normal". It was so helpful to hear other parents' stories, struggles, and successes. I never dreamed I would be raising 2 kids alone. Thanks to Brooke's Place, I can say that I have succeeded at raising 2 happy, healthy, well-rounded, loving, giving, resilient young men.