As so many know well, February 22 was always a day of celebration. Susie’s brightness and excitement was so heart-warming, and her birthday was no exception. Usually a highlight of winter break, Susie’s birthday was always a celebration of the happiest, most loving girl we knew.

And that’s why, in our first tough year without her, it is only appropriate to continue the tradition of celebrating our wonderful Susie. For the last three months, we have talked about and shared the happiness of “living like Susie,” and here is our first chance to really show it.

Today, it is “Free Hugs Day” all around Long Island and beyond. You can find friend-made flyers and posters around Rocky Point and Stony Brook, and hundreds of people are out, looking to simply make others happy. Smile at strangers, strike up conversations with those around you, and go out of your way to make someone’s day turn around. This is how Susie lived each and every day, and it truly is a great example for us all.

Today is a day to celebrate the amazing fortune we all had to know a person as great as Susie. It is a terrible thing that we no longer have her here, but she remains with us in energetic spirit and in her unmistakable attitude. It is ours to celebrate and strive for in ourselves. Make a move, and change the world around you. Take today, and truly Live Like Susie!

 

 

Also, I declare it double-coupon Wednesday.