My parents

I had the honor of being present last night as my parents received the inaugural "Philanthropists of the Year" award by our hometown's Community Foundation organization.  My mother has set on the board of this organization since I was a child, and my parents decided to become Legacy Donors with a fund that will be funded by my father's life insurance policy.  My sister and I will be the advisers and distributors of the fund money.  I had known for a week that my parents were receiving the award, and I made arrangements to be there as it was being presented.  My father, of course, wasn't able to attend the ceremony, but my sister, aunt, and grandmother were there.  My paternal grandmother knew about the award, but decided she wanted to stay close by my dad since he would be alone for a few hours.  This organization is so special and important to my mom, and I'm so grateful I was able to be there for the presentation.  I snuck in so that I could hear and see, but she couldn't see me until after the presentation.  My mother literally wept when she was presented the award.  Mom has won many awards over time, but because this one honored both she and Dad, it was especially emotional, and I know the fact that this was the very first one ever given added to that as well.  I am so blessed with an amazing family!