OK – trying to catch up on the writing, bear with my LONG post – its really multiple posts, but I’m not good at making the time to write lately. #summerresolution

It’s been a constant flurry of visitors, cookies, band practice, fresh fruit, porch beers, take out, surprise packages and lots of tea this week-while we we’re hunkered down recouping after last week’s turn of events- although we did sneak out for a Memorial Day BBQ of epic proportions – thanks Spiv, et al.

Dean is definitely creeping back to feeling human and actually able to stand on the sidelines again.  Our team of doctors and friends has been amazing and we are so so blessed – everyone keeping so positive and really understanding what’s best for Dean and what’s most important to us going forward. We couldn’t ask for better care. Really.

They’ve just finished up radiation to his spine, hip and brain – 8 weeks of radiation 5 days a week –  to relieve his pain, and hopefully build enough strength to get back to life as somewhat usual. Another new normal. Chemo started back up for the next six months, we’ll commute from the beach once a week.  Really really rocky road and he’s feeling super crappy.  We decided time off from work was best, and with him not able to drive just now, it means I’m off too. We both hate not working, but alas, Dean has to sit in the passenger seat – and coach my driving, delightful, truly. It’s hard not to work, and I can appreciate the frustration and hesitation he had in making that decision. Funny how God works. I’m just seeing that now.

We’ll head to the beach in two weeks forsome much needed time with our feet in the sand.  We’ll come up for treatment, but focus on the girls and their sailing season and spending as many days in and on the water as possible. Dean’s favorite place, at the end of our jetty.  It’s a thin spot for us, something Michael Doyle uses to describe a place where you feel close to God. With all well wishes and prayers, he’ll be strong enough to paddle out and catch a few waves, hoot and holler with the guys and watch the girls do what they love as well. We’re a water family, and thats where we should be. He’s tired of cancer, and frankly so am I. It’ll be an important summer.

As if the last few weeks weren’t shitty enough, we lost a friend unexpectedly over Memorial Day, and suddenly, as bad as our week was looking, we realized it could be worse, that we were the lucky ones and that every single minute is so precious.  Our entire zip code is mourning the loss and sending prayers of strength and peace to Keith’s lovely wife and family. I seriously haven’t met a more upstanding guy ever. Its just tragic.

Dean’s grandmother also passed away last week, at the age of 99. Nanny Ursula was an amazing woman, who taught us all so much, for me in particular, the gift of summers at the beach, all piled in, and how it really can bring a family together, not to mention lots of late nights, laughter and good times. Also, how to serve tiny hot peppers with fancy little scissors, so you could cut them fresh for your pasta.

There have been lots of questions from the girls and discussion about family – and community and death and life. It’s been a pretty intense experience and we’re all a little more grateful for what we have, and certainly a little closer as a family.

In typical Cucinotta style, we have had some amazing fun amongst it all. The windows can be little, but certainly what carryus through the rocky terrain. There’s been lots of music, like clear the dining room of all furniture and have band practice with the boys music. Spontaneous, groovy and full of love. Dean and the In The Red guys have been together for 30+ years, certainly no lack of good stories and incredible memories, a true brotherhood – plus it’s my favorite thing to do, hang out at band practice. It’s magical and healing and fun and oh so good for the soul. if you drive by and hear them playing, stop in for sure.

Last week, our favorite New Orleans guys were in town for a blink – Dave, Andrew, Rob, George, Ed, Zach and Michael – together a powerhouse of energy and talent that make up The Revivalists. We’ve seen them countless times at this point, and become friends in the last little while. I remember when Dean first heard them – he smiled and said, “man – I gotta play with these guys!” and so it was…a little WHIPPIN’ POST – Revivalists style – horns and all – with smiles all around. We were all in awe watching.  Someone that night said, “the music will make it all better” and for that night, it sure did. What a blessing guys, thanks so much!Get out and see them this summer THEY ARE EVERYWHERE! Here’s a little snippet of the night. (click on the red words) Enjoy! When you watch it – you’ll want more, I know. We were all so busy taking it in, we really didn’t get much video – my sister has one as well, but it’s stuck on her phone 😦

Thank you to everyone taking care of us and making sure we’re fed, and watered – literally- we are so blessed to have friends and family surrounding us and loving us so BIG. xx