Sunday, November 6, 2011

Margaret's Excellent Adventure

I bet you would love to hear about Margaret’s Excellent Adventure, made possible by… YOU!

The fruit of your tweeting, Facebooking, emails, blogging, calling, begging, and of course praying really started bubbling up a few days ago. Friends of friends (and a sorority sister!) who work for People Magazine in NY woke up before dawn on Halloween, dressed as Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice to try to win tickets for Margaret. Oh yes they did. Hats and all! They got plucked out of the audience and got to go back stage to plead Margaret’s case to anyone who would listen. Incredible!

Others reached out to a friend, an amazing woman and exec at NBC, who generously gave Margaret 2 VIP tickets for the Nov 23 Bieber Today show concert!

We even had phone messages from our local news station wanting to know what was up with all of those tweets! Your campaign certainly got noticed.

So while I was processing this exciting info, and LOVING how you were loving on my little girl, I got another call. The best friend of the sister of a woman who lived in our town until a year ago (are you following?) and who grew up a few streets away from our house, spent the weekend arranging THIS:

Tickets for the 3 of us to attend the American Music Awards in LA where Justin Bieber will be performing! Oh yes. Airfare and hotel, too! And if possible, a meet and greet —all courtesy of Coca-Cola, who puts on the show. Wow.

So I went from “Will I shower before work today?” to having the words: “Today Show, People Magazine, Dick Clark, AMA’s and Justin Bieber” spinning in my head. Oh my.

I decided it was time to clue Margaret in on all of this, for I do not believe that a complete surprise is the right approach given the shock she has endured losing Jack so suddenly.

She, of course, was THRILLED THRILLED THRILLED, and when I told her the two awesome opportunities-- the Today Show and the AMA's-- she said, “Can I do both?” Yeah, it took her about a millisecond to get used the idea of traveling the country and seeing Justin, her main man, perform not once but twice! However, we made her choose and she chose the AMA’s because she’s never been to CA before. In fact, she hasn’t been on a plane since she was 3 years old.

YOU did this.

Your phone calls, your tweets, your prayers, your willingness to reach out on Facebook and through your blogs to a family you may only have heard about in the “virtual” world…every little bit made a difference. Whether or not your phone call or email was the one that secured these awesome opportunities, you extended yourself to try to bring some excitement, some distraction, and some pleasure at a time of deep mourning.

And you know what? Margaret was not surprised. Sure, she was VERY surprised that her heartfelt shopping list would lead to her getting to hear JB perform. But when I told her everything YOU had done to make it happen, she was happy, but not surprised. Living in a world where people care about and help each other did not surprise her one bit, and for that I am even more grateful. YOU did that.

It was a generous outpouring of love from people who, to a large extent, have probably felt pretty helpless in regards to our little family, especially since no one can give us what we truly want and need-- Jack back here with us. I will never be able to know every detail of what each person has done for us or be able to thank you adequately, but please know what you have done has touched us deeply.

When I’m going through hell, and unfortunately that it what it feels like most days, I’m so glad you are on my side.

...

So in a few weeks, look for us on the red carpet! I’ll be the dazed one with gray roots on my head and gratefulness in my heart for people I may or may not ever meet. Margaret will be the one flashing her tin grin, with purple braces for JB, of course.

Thank you.

99 comments:

K A B L O O E Y said...

Hallelujah! (Hey, I love that song. Maybe Bieber will cover it?) This is amazing news. I'm so happy for Margaret and I know the people who love you and worked so hard calling on any and everyone are going to be justifiably proud of themselves. While I'm disappointed you won't be coming to my old hometown, I think Margaret made the right choice -- spinning her list into a genuine vacation. Red carpet, baby! (I suggest the coalition now move on to solving the Mideast crisis.)

Lisa said...

Simply amazing...so, so happy for you and Margaret! Have a fantastic time!!

S. Taylor said...

Baby, Baby, Baby - ahhhh! (singing)

This was such a fun post to read!

How exciting - I am so happy a little 'happy' has landed your way!

Can't wait to read all about it!
xoxo

carrie // kimm said...

YEAAAHHH for the three of you!
A much deserved slice of happiness!!!
Take the time and allow yourself to enjoy this moment!!
~Carrie

the mama bird diaries said...

That is wonderful. I am so happy that she has something to look forward to.

Sue@Uniquely Chic said...

There was no doubt in my mind that this would happen! I am so happy for you all. A tiny little silver lining. Have a blast and know Jack is smiling on all of you :)

Leeann said...

How amazing.

Amazing and wonderful and I am so happy!

On another note, we had a remembrance service in our Methodist church today, for those we have lost in our congregation and otherwise. Jack was on my mind and on my heart and prayers for your family poured from my lips.

Blessings to all,
Leeann

Anonymous said...

aWESOME! Some joy & distraction from the pain. Sooooo happy. Elated! Sandie brown

Pam@OurAdventuresInHomeImprovement said...

Oh my gosh! That is such great news. I'm trying to type with tears rolling down my cheeks. I am so happy for all of you!

Pam

Nichole@40daysof said...

Yay! I'm so happy this has come about. Hope your family has a great time.

Ali said...

This is one crush Margaret will *never* outgrow. I know Jack is up there, pulling down air and saying, "Yessss!" for his sister.

And holy crap, what are you going to wear?!

Nomads By Nature said...

I know she'd give it all back in a heartbeat for Jack. But I'm grateful she, and by extension you, have something to make you smile these days, a healing balm of love to help ease the pain in your hearts. I think of you all often and pray for you to find strength and support in the most difficult but mundane parts of the day - sometimes they are the hardest.

From a mom in Mozambique, who doesn't personally know you but feels your pain and wishes somehow these inadequate words hold you up just a bit more steady today.

And especially, big hugs to Margaret, who I worry about traveling on this road of grief. Thankfully she has awesome parents to carry her through and a God who will wipe away every tear.

Jessica said...

This is so wonderful!! I hope Margaret has a wonderful time!

Marissa said...

Yay! This is a great example of the good that social media can do--I am happy that the right people were smart enough to come through for your family.

Kelly Rojas said...

Wow!! Such wonderful news!! I am so excited for Margaret!! I must say though I am just as excited for you to see her so happy! What a blessing. I pray this memory will bring you all joy for a long time to come.

Anonymous said...

Anna so happy things worked out so freaking well!! You and your daughter deserve a some happiness and time just zoning out, doing what you love :)

Mrs. E said...

Couldn't be happier for Margaret and for all of you. "When you're going through hell, keep on going."

NanaDiana said...

Just when we feel like we have seen some of the worst of mankind we are fortunate enough to be swept away by the sheer GOODNESS of people. God bless all of you in your travels...and I hope that baby girl loves her special treat. It is something she will remember all her life.

My thougths go to you during the strangest times of day..to a woman I have never met, will probably never meet, but feel I know as only one Mom can know another. xo Diana

Leah C said...

It's nice to see that some wishes can come true...how wonderful & amazing for your sweet Margaret:) Hugs & prayers...

for a different kind of girl said...

Oh my! I have been, for whatever varied purpose, offline for about a month, so I've missed this, but I just spent time catching up, and I am speechless with happiness for your Margaret and your family! What an amazing, wonderful world out there, working to boost that beautiful smile! I'm so very happy! I (secretly) have some Justin Bieber songs on my iPod, but check it - next time they come up in the rotation, I'm rolling the windows down and cranking up the volume, and singing along, all for Margaret and her grand adventure!

IrishRN07 said...

Awesome!!

Kim said...

Un-belieb-able!
but, not really!
Thrilled for your precious family.

Stimey said...

I am so very, very happy to read this. I'm thrilled for Margaret!

Alexandra said...

Somehow, I knew we could do this.


You must get on twitter: you'd really see just how quickly people can become 6 degrees of separation.

CONGRATS!

Anonymous said...

I was confident that this would come about--so I am not surprised, either. So many good hearts and clever hands were working to do this for her and for you that it was sure to happen. I am super happy for everyone, especially Margaret. She's going to have a blast. And of course, Jack is thrilled for her.

love,
jbhat

Kirsten said...

SO happy for you guys and for Margaret! Hopefully is will ease your pain ever so slightly.

Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. said...

That's wonderful news! Enjoy every minute!

DawnGes said...

Wow! Margaret, Anna, and Tim--absolutely thrilled for you! Does Ellen DG know? She'd love Margaret, guaranteed!

Kori said...

That. Is. AWESOME!!!! Have SOOOOOOOOOOOO much fun Margaret!!!!!!! :D

Kim @ A Brush of Whimsy said...

Yippee!!!!

Anna Lefler said...

Oh, YAY!!! I love this!!

Sending huge hugs!

XOXO

Anna

Laura at Ms. Smartie Pants said...

just smilin :)

Vegan Eden said...

I knew this would manifest :)
There are lots of other miracles coming too...

Varda said...

Yay! Just yay! And hugs. And YAY!

Lynda Halliger Otvos (Lynda M O) said...

The power of the human spirit demonstrates in all its sentimental glory (yes, I teared up) what we can and will do for others we may not even know outside the blogs and twitter feeds and Tumbler. Yet we do come thru for each other—over and over and over again.

Safe travels; I look forward to seeing pics.

Aimee said...

YAY!!!! :) All smiles for Margaret over here! She's one LUCKY GIRL!!

Erin said...

YEAH!! I am so happy that everything worked out for Margaret and that at least this one little wish can come true for her!

Love,
Erin

Anonymous said...

This is a physical manifestation of all the love, good wishes and prayers for you and your family. There are so very, very many people thinking about you, willing you on. You have a network of well-wishers that spans the globe. Bad days, good days, inbetween days... just keep putting one foot in front of the other and remember that you are never alone.

ART aka Anna-Ruth Taynton said...

:)

luv2run said...

SO SO happy to read this this morning! A little goes a long way and NEVER SAY NEVER!!!!!!!!!!!

Hugs!

luv2run

Formerly known as Frau said...

Yay!! I wish she could do both....
I love JB he is a stand up guy and so genuine.
I hope you have a wonderful time and this gives Margaret a smile.

Lynn Kellan said...

What great news! :)

smilinjo said...

Love that her immediate response was wanting to do both! Such a teen girl (or maybe even woman since I am 40 and think it probably would have been my first response as well). This has just made my whole day! Way to go everyone and I hope you, your hubby and most of all Margaret have the most Excellent Adventure! :)

Lady Courtney said...

Heaven sent. I too am not surprised that this is actually happening. Just like Margaret, I know there is more good out there than bad, we just don't hear about it. Enjoy!!!

Anonymous said...

Great news! Try not to trip on the red carpet. Your family is always in our prayers.

Clare said...

It truly is amazing. We will all be waiting for the post of your recap of the AMAs. Have a blast!!!

Meredith Self said...

Looking forward to the pics!

I believe there are many more gifts and ways you will all be comforted. Still sending wings of love all the time.

Way to go Margareteers!

Mel said...

I have learned in the last year that Twitter can be amazingly powerful. I was able to witness first hand, the one or two tweets per day, in the beginning of the "Margaret Movement" and then just continuing to see it grow and grow, and the momentum pick up.

I am so happy to hear that the power of social media can have such a great impact on Miss Margaret. I played such a small part in that role, but feel a great sense of pride that we were able to make it happen!

I will be watching for you!!!!

Deb said...

Wow! So happy for Margaret! Thank you Lord for people who love extravagantly during a time when you need to feel that touch of love.So glad you all will have some joyful memories in the midst of all the difficult days.

TheLab said...

SO SO SO SO HAPPY to hear this! Your precious little girl gets to smile!

I pray for more miracles!

Anonymous said...

oh my goodness... amazing - and so happy for you and Margaret... Jack will be with you that night - i hope you know that... have a great time and one day at a time for the other stuff... Love xoxo Patty

Kristie Jackson said...

Anna, What a thrill to read this. I love your heart -your joy and gratitude over this adventure and your willingness to share the true horror of living without Jack. The Light-- the Jesus -- that you reflect in your writing is such a tremendous encouragement. I am awed and inspired each time I read your blog, and I am praying this morning for all three of you.

Cat Alford said...

Margaret, omgosh I am so excited!!! What are you going to wear?!?!?! Very fun!!!! :)))) So happy for you Anna!

xoxo
Cat
aka
BudgetBlonde

Anonymous said...

Hurray! Doing a little happy dance for you and your family!

Issa said...

This is just amazing. I'm so happy for her.

fiwa said...

It is amazing what love can do. I'm so glad for Margaret.

Lexilooo said...

I have tears in my eyes! This is amazing!

Cindy said...

I am so happy for your beautiful family...so happy that you all have this to look forward to! You are ALL in my thoughts and prayers.

Lisa G. said...

YAAAYYYYYY!

Anne said...

How wonderful.I am so happy for Margaret.Just what she needs right now.Have a fantastic time.Our prayers continue to be with you all.

Kimberly said...

Words cannot express how thrilled I am for all of you! And the fact that Margaret still has such faith in humanity that she was not surprised by strangers' kindness makes this story that much sweeter. I cannot wait to hear all about her (and your) adventures!

Theresa O said...

All I can say is WOOOOHOOOOOO, Alleluia, AMEN!!! THIS IS THE MOST AWESOME NEWS I HAVE HEARD IN AWHILE!!! God Bless all 3 of you, and what a special trip you will have! I will definately be watching and so will many others - smiling ear to ear. Amazing people in this world! So glad the world has come together to help you through this difficult time and provide a day/evening of sunshine and excitement to all 3 of you. Enjoy!

Tiffany said...

Amazing! I've been following your blog for a while...I'm so glad you have a reason to smile and be excited right now!!

Liz said...

I like to think of this as a parting gift from Jack to his sister. So happy for this opportunity to bring some smiles you way.

Anonymous said...

I really did tear up when I read this. Your family deserves every bit of happiness!!! Have an amazing time, and we will all watch for Margaret's glowing smile from CA.

Melanie in NC said...

And after days of rain...feeling a bit of sunshine upon your face!!! AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME! or should I say....BABY BABY BABY OHHHHH!:) The Lord allowing Jack to give gifts...how cool is that!:) Escape..enjoy and bathe in these moments of hope! Lifting you and yours up...Will look for your beautiful faces...roots and all:) on the red carpet...Blessings, Melanie in NC..Originally a CA girl!:)

Melissa Silverman said...

Awesome, simply, AWESOME!!! God is AWESOME!! :) xoxo

Tamatha Banks said...

So thrilled I am actually in tears! What a wonderful gift to give to a little girl who needs this happiness and distraction in her life. So glad all the prayers worked!!!

Pamela said...

I LOVE this story!

Heidi said...

This is just so, so fantastic for Margaret!

Anonymous said...

What the Johnny?? It worked! I knew it would..the power of tweets and Facebook know no bounds! Although it can't bring your, I mean OUR Jack back...it will give Margaret something to smile about! And to have such faith that it would happen just soothes the soul! Can't wait to look out for you! Enjoy and breathe!
From you friend in Miami Beach!
NEVER SAY NEVER!

mia said...

Amazing.... So very happy that it worked. I hope you all are able to have a wonderful trip... You are loved and prayed for daily by many. Xoxo

Ann Imig said...

This makes me so thrilled.

A silver Bieber lining to an unbearable-sized cloud.

xo and huge high fives!

Wendi said...

Whoopee!

Stephanie Wilson she/her @babysteph said...

So so glad. Wonderful. Have the BEST time!

Steph

anymommy said...

So amazing. I can't wait to hear all about it.

jm2jmm said...

so happy for Margaret & you!

Anonymous said...

This is so wonderful! Thank you for sharing this exciting news. Always thinking of you & your family...

Sar said...

WOOOOOOOHOOOOOO!

Anonymous said...

That is amazing! Go, Margaret!!!

Lindsay said...

SO SO exciting! hoping for big smiles on that sweet Margaret's pretty face! :) hugs and prayers!

Anonymous said...

it brings me joy just thinking of her joy! so, so, SO glad all the efforts paid off. HAVE SO MUCH FUN, MARGARET!!

Scottish lass said...

So fabulous! THIS is what social media is for.
I hope it lifts all your spirits sky high and gives you a little break from your grief.

Kate said...

Yeahhhhhhh!

Anonymous said...

You're welcome! It's the least we could do! xo

Mama Mary said...

I am overjoyed about this, though, like you, I am not surprised. Tweeting and Facebooking and blogging about Margaret's grocery list and trying to get Justin Bieber on board was something we all wanted to do because we wanted to help you and your family in even the smallest of ways. I will be watching the show and looking for you in the audience. :)

Unknown said...

Wow! How amazing. I can't wait to be watching and see this! :)

Kristin @ What She Said said...

This makes me happier than I ever knew a complete stranger's blog could. So thrilled that your family will be able to experience some joy in this time of such mourning.

Kristin @ What She Said said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Kir said...

I am so excited for her and for all of you...truly. I believe it the power of people and the love that will carry you.

WOW!!!!!!

Mrs4444 said...

This is terrific. What a bright spot to remember forever...

The Woven Moments said...

My heart just sings (SINGS!) with joy at reading this post.

It's amazing what people. women. MOTHERS. can do when we put our minds (and tweets) to it.

Hugs to you and your beautiful girl!

Anonymous said...

So excited for you all! I am glad Margaret is going to see Justin Bieber and maybe even meet him! We think of and pray for you all often; we imagine that your pain is immeasurable. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. May the Lord continue to comfort you and your family.

Love,
your cousin Emily R

mosey (kim) said...

How on earth did Margaret CHOOSE???? Holy moly, I would have been angling for both. She is quite obviously even more exceptional than we all have been led to believe. ;)

So excited for you all. Blessings in the midst of it all. Hard to grasp, but so grateful for the power of social media for a little ray of sunshine....

x

Vodka Mom said...

:-)

The Working Momaholic said...

YAAAYYYYYY!!! I'm just reading this and so happy this is happening for you after what you've endured. I can't imagine what your family has gone through but I Amos glad Margaret has something to lift her spirits.

Anonymous said...

"In know nothing about the music world."

Anna, do you ever play music at home? It has wonderfully healing, mood-lifting powers. Some classic motown or swingin' Sinatra while you're making Saturday morning breakfast with Margaret. Some Jack Johnson while you guys play a game. A soundtrack to one of your absolute favorite movies? Chicken soup for your ears.

On those days/nights when the house seems too quiet or the drone of the tv starts to wear on you, turn on some tunes. There is a song out there for your every mood and every emotion.

xo.

The Carens Clan said...

This made my heart leap! I can just imagine the look on her face! Now on to praying she gets to meet him face to face ;) So excited for you all!

Michelle DeRusha said...

I am so, so glad for this, Anna.