I just returned from a long weekend in my hometown of Yellow Springs, Ohio where my siblings (in the photo), our children (I have two grown daughters) grandchildren (two for us!), dear friends, and I gathered to celebrate the wedding of one our youngest children (my nephew). It was a beautiful event and all 33 of our family travelled to it from Vermont, New Jersey, New York, Western MA, and Thailand. It was a reminder to me- along with the horrific events in Israel and Gaza – of what is important in this brief life. We must keep a perspective and be kind to one another- lessons I continue to learn over the years. I am honored by the support I am receiving and will strive to serve you and all of Northampton as your At Large School Committee member, if I am fortunate to be re-elected. May we know love, kindness, and peace.