The struggles are real.

So, here we are four years and then some past Sandy and there are so many still out there struggling.

I continue to work with Friends of Freeport.  As a result of my work with Friends of Freeport I have made some amazing connections- with those who have become fast friends, and with those who have connections within their won circles. Every day I see some forward movement in my local area- so many houses being lifted- knowing that at least some of the funding for those lifts comes from grants provided by NY Rising lifts my heart... but my own development can't seem to get a penny from that program- 160 families, jumping through hoops since we initially applied- can you imagine 160 people being willing to open their doors for inspections not one, not two, not three but 4 times????? It was/is nothing short of amazing, and yet there is more wanted before funds are disbursed....
the community continues to have plumbing issues, leaky windows, doors and garages...
Taxes in the village have not increased, yet our taxes have gone up- really? Squeezing a stone, that's what we have been doing, and what will continue to be done...

Personal struggles continue as well... wishing that this too would ease and that forward motion was more rapid and consistent.  Thank goodness for those in my support system who lift and hold me when I can't do it for myself...I dare not imagine where I would be without these super people.
I smile on the outside when I am often not feeling that smile, but with those special individuals I can let the walls crumble and let the tears, sadness and anger out...and then I reconstitute and move on to the next challenge. I have made a commitment to myself to train and run a half marathon, so running is back in my daily routine and it is a wonderful buddy that helps keep me focused, I can't wait to see my progress.