Today, as I sit here with my COFFEE this morning, it is a quick moment of relaxation before I jump in the car to head to ST Paul.  Today is the ‘Be The Change You Want To Be” benefit for my son.

Bittersweet as you can imagine.

It is easy to get caught up in the to do’s.  There is a Silent Auction, inviting people, making signs for the event…

but it is never far from my mind why we are doing this.

Justin’s friends Branden and Heather are hosting this and I am so proud of them.  They are doing it to honor their friend, gather with memories, and raise money for Justin’s passion, the kids of Manuelito in Honduras.

My son had many passions.  He loved living and experiencing life to the fullest.  He loved his friends fiercely.  And he loved going to Honduras and spending time with these kids who had become friends to him. One of our last conversations two days before his accident was about Manuelito and the kids.  He had thought before leaving on this trip in 2015 that it would be his last.  He was no longer in College and felt it might be time to focus on his future.  Yes when he came back in March of 2015 he said,

“Mom, I just can’t give it up.  I cannot imagine not being a part of that mission.”

So here we are.  Honoring Justin’s wishes and loving him all rolled into one.   I can’t imagine not.

If you find interest in Justin’s passion and the kids of Manuelito.  You are welcome to give using this link, and in the comments put DeChantal Memorial.  My mother heart of course thanks you.

For todays Saturday snapshot, a couple pics of Justin in Honduras.

Thanks everyone.  I am off.