My ‘real’ out-of-office email response

Last year, I posted my ‘real’ out-of office message for the holidays. I have done the same this year and would like to share with you.”I am out of the office from Dec. 24 – Jan. 4. This Christmas may be my husband’s last one on this Earth. He was diagnosed in 2017 with Stage 3 esophageal cancer. After 5 grueling weeks of daily chemo, radiation, and a massive 7-hour surgery, our hope was that he was cured.

Our hopes were dashed this summer when tests showed the cancer had come back. My handsome, athletic 45-year old husband was told he has months left to live. This breaks my heart for him, our young children and for me.

So this Christmas, I don’t plan to check my email a lot. Let’s face it, most things can wait until we return from our vacation. I am going to focus on being present, loving those around me as much as I can, and trying to find some moments of joy despite the strong feelings of being terrified that grip me from the moment I wake up until the moment I go to sleep at night.

I wish you a happy holiday. I encourage you to not get caught up in the small stresses of the #holidays, but focus on the big picture. Focus on your loved ones and make the most of each precious moment. Happy holidays from my family to yours!