July 29: Bobby Russ
Today, I took my mom out for dinner for her birthday. We talked a little about Renee and some of the great memories we had with her. Every year, Renee and I would do something for my mom for her birthday. Renee was one of those people who treated my mom like she was family even though there was no blood connection. She really had that heart of gold. When we could do things for my mom, we often did.
This brings me to 2 memories of Renee in relation to my mom. First, my mom loves Dunkin Donuts... more specifically the ice coffee there. So, one times, I was driving and Renee and my mom where both passengers in the car. We were going to the quick care for something for Renee. So, we are driving along 441 looking for the place. Then, out of the back, Renee and I hear "Dunkin Donits". Renee laughed and went "where?". Me and Renee were looking on both sides... We saw Lowes, Sam's club, etc. My mom? She pointed near a gas station and there it was tucked into the side of the road.
Renee teased her that she had a "Dunkin Donuts" GPS system. It didn't matter where it was, my mom could find it. Obviously, Renee suggested that I drop Renee off at quick care and then take my mom to Dunkin Donuts. She told me that she'd call when she was done because she wasn't sure how long it would be. We got our drinks and Renee called and we met up with her.
Now, I told that story... so I could tell you another... Renee wanted to do something special for my mom. So, she brought up to me the idea of getting her a dunkin donuts card which would automatically refill when it got empty from our account. That way if my mom wasn't with us, she could still get her iced coffee and we would still earn points as well towards free drinks. Honestly, I didn't even think about it and I was touched that she cared for my mom enough to think about it.
My mom when she got it almost cried tears of joy. She thanked us profusely and I made sure to give credit to Renee for it. Renee never would take sole credit and always said it was a gift from both of us. Renee was awesome that way. While I agreed with the idea and helped to implement her plan, she was the inspiration. I can never thank Renee enough for all the things she did for my mom when frankly she didn't have to. My mom was family to her.
I still think back to the last exchange we had. You guys were among the first we told about Laura and the upcoming event. She was so joyful and happy...almost as much as me. I am going to miss her and her zest.