As I write this antics, Dave and I are driving home from celebrating New Years with friends up north. We headed back a little earlier than the others to make it home in time for the funeral of Julie LeBlanc. Many of you might remember Julie as the founder of the Julie Run...the annual race that raised money for Open Door outreach center. Julie had a heart for those less fortunate and worked for years on the board of Open Door to serve the hungry in our community. Body Language was honored to team up with Julie for years as sponsor of this event.
In addition to serving the community, Julie was the matriarch of an amazing local family that she loved and served as well. I am lucky enough to be friends with a couple of her daughters so was frequently invited to family events over the years. Julie always made me feel like I was welcomed and loved as if I was one of her daughters. I know many others felt the same!!
Julie had so much spunk and enthusiasm...I remember her and her husband tearing up the dance floor at our Christmas parties...I also remember her shimmying in Zumba right next to her daughter and grand daughter...3 generations!!!!
I share this glimpse of Julie Leblanc with you because she has touched my life and so many others and I’m thinking perhaps Julie’s passing can serve as reminders to all of us in this New Year. A reminder that our lives do impact others. A reminder that we, like Julie, can be an inspiration to those with whom we cross paths.
Here are a few of the things Julie has inspired me to do: to look beyond myself and find ways to serve others...to invest in my family and friends but to try and make all feel welcomed like they are family...and to continue doing things I love like dancing with enthusiasm.
Julie will be missed but the impact she had on so many lives will live on.
Rest In Peace Julie.
