I had a post drafted for today, sharing pictures and highlights from our weekend in Vermont. But, in light of the tragic event that occured during the night in Las Vegas, it doesn’t seem appropriate to share that post today.

Last night, for the first time in ages, Katie woke up around 2:30 AM.  When I grabbed my phone to check the time, I saw multiple New York Times news alerts on my phone. My heart dropped as I read the details. When I went into the nursery, I held Katie a little bit longer and a little bit tighter.

Maybe it’s because I’ve gone to Las Vegas many times on business trips. Maybe it is because on two of those trips I stayed at Mandalay Bay. Maybe it’s because I’ve run through the Las Vegas strip and surrounding neighborhoods eleven times and have always been in awe of this city in the middle of the desert; which should have never been possible due to the lack of water sources.

Maybe it’s because I have a daughter and want nothing more than for her to grow up safe and sound in this world. Maybe it is because I am so sad and overwhelmed by the horror that greets us multiple mornings throughout the year. There is very little we can do to prevent natural disasters like hurricanes, floods and tornadoes. But, I believe there are things that can be done to prevent what occured last night.

I do not have the answer, nor do I want to use this blog as a political platform. I am going to take time today to hug loved ones a little closer, take a few deep breaths, and learn more about the current gun laws in America.

My prayers and thoughts are with everyone impacted by the tragic events as of late and, if you are in a position which allows you to donate to the victims, here is a link to the Las Vegas Victims’ Fund which was organized last night by Steve Sisolak, Clark County Commission Chair for Las Vegas.