Technically challenged, do not try this at home

They say that trying to learn new skills during a crisis is a lot like building a house during a tornado.

Damn ubiquitous "they". And I owe my daughter yet another quarter for swearing. Now that Xav can read, he's going to want in on the action.

Each time I feel like whining over yet another technical snafu - say, attempting to attach an event invitation to a mass e-mail - I get a giant slap upside the head from the Goddess of Perspective. It says something like "Really? In the grand scheme of things? Really?" How is it that the Newells are facing each and every challenge and still able to function? Just thinking of facing such an illness in my kids feels like a hoof to the chest; I can barely breathe.

So the minor fits of self-doubt over fundraising don't even make a blip. Or so I keep telling myself. And if you haven't checked the CaringBridge site for Will lately, be sure to do so. Very cute puppy pictures, and Will looking pretty darn good for being less than a week post-surgery. Amazing.

The preschool cooperative experience really cemented our family's relationship with the Newells. We did the lunch/play date thing weekly, and Janel was kind enough to take over my position when we "graduated." My fundraising experience, such as it is, was part of the co-op. And it wasn't always pretty.

There was a desperate moment of planning where we actually considered the anti-fundraiser fundraiser. Which is where you and the family don't do planning, prep, or set up - instead contributing the commensurate amount of $$$ that you would have spent, plus babysitter, and enjoy the evening at home. It's opting out, and is sometimes appealing. Sending a check is technically enough, right?

Other than hoping to raise some funds to relieve a bit of stress, I'm hoping this event brings together the many people touched by Will and his family. So we can generate some positive, healing, fabulous energy and remind us that although the worst of times can bring out the best in people, you at least need to make a showing.