Life lessons...

In high school I had a friend named Jamie of whom I was particularly fond. We'd often eat lunch together, laughing and talking about boys. Then, as it sometimes happens in life, we went our different paths. She went to college, got married, moved to Cape Cod, had two daughters. I thought of her often, but we had little contact.

Then a few years back we re-connected on Facebook. Social media has many a drawback, but there are wonderful things about it, too, like reforging old bonds.  Not too long after we started visiting on Facebook, I mentioned that my Flirt poodle had a puppy that was looking for a home.  Jamie was looking for a small dog to join their family, and they next thing I knew she and her husband were coming to adopt the pup.

I liked her husband the moment I met him. Tall and rather quiet at first, I soon learned he had a good sense of humor, a curious mind, and a deep love of his family. He enjoyed looking around our little farm, meeting the animals, and asking great questions.  Jamie explained that Harry was raised in the city of Lynn, and had not ever had much exposure to farm animals before.  He had a twinkle in his eye every time he came here, most especially when we would go spend time in the pasture. The goats would go through his pockets looking for treats, and his grin would brighten the whole place up a few notches.

Three years ago Jamie announced to her many friends and family that kept up with her on Facebook that Harry had been diagnosed with cancer.

They jumped right in to fight the good fight. And Jamie told us about it every step of the way. The medical treatments, the successes and disappointments. And how they chose to tackle this particular challenge. They decided to make memories.

The next thing we knew, they'd both retired. They went to Europe. They went to Iceland. They bought the cutest little retro looking camper you've ever seen, and they took off. We got to see it all. The wild horses, the buffalo, the national monuments. The ocean side walks, the rocks they climbed.They posted hundreds of "selfies," side by side, grinning, with amazing backdrops. We got to see the cozy camp grounds where they, along with their two little dogs, would cook and chat and laugh, relax and enjoy each others company. Chris and I had the opportunity to join them one time while they were camping in Maine. Burgers on the grill, dogs in laps, laughter and chatting all around. It was sweet. Every time they came to Maine they'd stop by. Rachel and I would groom the dogs, Jamie and Harry would bring us home made beach plum jam and other treats, and we always were richer for the time spent together.

Jamie and Harry were the sort of couple that everyone hopes to be. Totally comfortable together, supportive of one another. Jamie funny and outgoing, Harry a little more reserved, but obviously delighted to watch his wife's antics. They touched each other a lot... his arm around her shoulder, her hand on his leg. Warmth radiated from them.

This fall the Facebook news told us that they were not planning any trips. Harry chose to go on Hospice care. The posts never showed any self pity; each was full of courage and joy in the time they had together.  Harry started his next journey on October 17th. He was home, in the arms of the woman he so clearly loved and admired.

I am so grateful to have had the chance to spend some time with my old friend, Jamie, and my new friend, Harry. They have taught me much as they shared the story of the last three years. How to embrace all the good in life, how to be courageous as the sand in the hourglass dwindles. They took every step with deep love, and took the time to share with others how they lived life to the fullest while they could. You left us inspired, Harry. Thank you.