Ginny, Part 4: Like Family

Time to come in...she scratches at the door until we open the door for her.

Maggie's idea of reading the Sunday paper with me.

Drama girl...feed me!

Ginny took really good care of us for taking care of her baby. She was always so appreciative that Maggie had a loving home to enjoy when she was away, whether she was gone for a day at work or an extended period on the road. She had looked at doggie day care businesses as a back up but never had to use one. She did pay Kayla, but also showered our entire family with thanks and gifts. Ginny was a very generous, thoughtful friend. Because of Ginny, Pierce & I tried new restaurants with gift cards she shared, we all had a University of Richmond wardrobe thanks to our annual Christmas sweatshirts -- even my brother!, and we have things around the house from Ginny. But she didn't realize the biggest gift she was giving us...

I remember the first time she told us she might be moving in pursuit of a head coaching position. Becoming a head coach was Ginny's dream. In the world of sports, transition to a new coaching position was very quick. As soon as she accepted a position, she'd be expected to relocate. So, we needed to know whenever the possibility arose because it would obviously affect the girls. Depending on where she ended up, Maggie might stay with us for a few months until she was able to get settled and make arrangements for Mags (hopefully another neighbor willing to welcome her into their daily routine.) Of course, Maggie was also older, so she didn't need to be tended to all day, but she sure loved the attention and Ginny liked knowing Maggie was with us.

Back to the first threat that she might be moving on...

We were at an Innsbrook After Hours concert together; I have no idea which one. We were waiting in line at the beer truck when she broke the news. My heart sunk. Throughout the evening we discussed the possibilities. At some point she asked how I thought the kids would take the news and I told her they'd be really sad. She seemed surprised. I told her "Ginny...you're like family to us." I don't think she had ever realized how much she meant to us until that moment.

We always knew the possibility existed that she might leave us, but never imagined it would be so tragically.