January 25th

Tonight, there was a candlelight vigil to celebrate Charles' life (affectionately called "Occupy Charles"). It was held at UMass Lowell's South Campus. As weird as this may sound, it was a great night. I would have to guess at least 100 people showed to share in a moment of silence and their favorite memories of Charles. While each story was different, they all had the same theme - Charles was the friendliest and nicest guy. He was one of those people that when you met him, it felt like you knew him forever. Yes, there were tears, but there was laughter too. And lots of hugs. I know if Charles was there, he'd have some funny quip or dance or song to make us all laugh and forget about why we were even sad in the first place. (and then complain about the cold and ask if we could move inside!)

I left the vigil with a new outlook on the situation. Yes, I am sad that I'll never get to see his big smile, hear him sing "VICKY DAYYY!", or give him a hug, but I know he lives on. And I know he would want us to smile. He would want us to live life to the fullest, grasp every opportunity and go for it. Go for what you want in life. I plan on doing just that.

January 24th

Today, the world lost a talented artist, rockin' musician, but most of all, the best friend someone could ever have. Charles passed away 3 am this morning suddenly and unexpectedly. The day was spent in Leominster/Fitchburg surrounded by friends and families and the sharing of warm memories of Charles. I honestly don't think anyone could say a bad thing about the man. He was a bright ray of sunshine and lit up any room he walked into with his energy and smile. Here he's pictured with the love of his life and my best friend Sarah. Sarah and Charles are the epitome of what true love is. They called each other "best friend", not boyfriend/girlfriend, and I absolutely love that. Don't worry Charles, we're taking good care of Sarah and always will :)

While Charles is no longer physically here with us, I know that his spirit and his memory will live forever on in every note of music, every beautiful piece of artwork, every smile, every giggle that turns into a roar of laughter, and most of all, in our hearts. I love you big bro <3

January 23rd

This was my night - just me and the cat! Nate drove down to Rhode Island for a work conference, so Cole and I lived it up (clearly). Sleeping in a California king bed alone feels like you have a field of a bed!

January 22nd

The New England Patriots are going to the SUPERBOWL!!!! Playing the New York Giants for a rematch. I have to say, watching this game had my heart racing until the very last second. As Brady said himself, he sucked, but the team pulled through. It came down to the Ravens kicking a field goal which they MISSED! MHK was definitely watching over the team that day.

January 21st

Today, my friend Maureen and I went to a Farmer's Market!! It was up in Tilton, but so worth the drive. I adore this indoor farmer's market, it was just so cool! They have lots of different tables for meats, cheeses, fish, soaps, and wine. I bought some meat, soap, veggies, and cheese. That night I made what I called my "New England Dinner" - Kielbasa and red potatoes from the farmer's market topped off with a Woodchuck! Yum!

January 20th

Today my mom's birthday gift came in! Look how cute the box is :) It helps that purple is her favorite color! I can't say what it is yet, but I can say that she will love it. Her birthday is on the 30th, so you'll just have to wait until then to see what's in the box!

January 19th

This is Sam! He's our director's dog, and he gets to visit our office from time to time. Thank God he does, because on stressful days/weeks like this, it's a nice little get away from the desk. How can you deny a cute face like his?