I'm Getting Married + I'm 50!

So. Much. Has. Happened. Life has been busy and full since my last post in June of 2025. I realized I haven't popped on to update on my blog, so here's a little catch-up.

On October 10, I turned 50! Chris and I were in the Finger Lakes (our happy place) celebrating when he proposed to me on my birthday. When we thought about when we wanted to get married, we landed on the month of April and decided to plan a wedding in six months! We made the best decision ever and hired a wedding planner who has made the process incredibly smooth.

We have been overwhelmed by the love and support surrounding us. At 50, I'm getting to experience something I never thought I would. The wedding will be taxing on me physcially--and I've asked for the shortest wedding day possible--but the fact that I can even have a wedding is remarkable.

I've been in the throes of wedding planning, and am looking forward to two bridal showers.

Tovah Rose

In August, we had to put down our sweet Tovah Rose. Gershwin is still hanging in there, but sleeps A LOT.

Keuka Rose

We have already adopted a four year old Lowchen named Keuka Rose. Keuka is the lake we love in the Finger Lakes and Rose is after both Tovah and the farm we stay at when are in the Finger Lakes.

We also finally got 50% custody of Hank, which is something we really wanted. Our custody challenges are far from over, and are quite stressful, but something that I can't speak openly about here. I'm a stepmom!

In October, the week after we got engaged, I held the ninth annual Rowe's Research Runners. I can't believe that 2026 will be our 10th year! We've raised close to a half million dollars for the Johns Hopkins Chronic Fatigue and Related Disorders Clinic since I first started. The event is a joyful way to commune with others affected by these illnesses. Dr. Rowe and Dr. Azola traveled to join us!

In December, we marked two years without Ellie. This year would have been her year to graduate high school and start college, which adds another layer of grief.

Some days I get overwhelmed by anxiety and worry that I won't be able to manage my anxiety or the physical demands of the wedding week. I've got an appointmnet coming up with Dr. Rowe to come up with a plan to manage anxiety the week of the wedding. Otherwise, I'm trying to savor every minute of the experience and am so excited to marry Chris. Turning 50 feels like the beginning of a new chapter in my life and I continue to relish my improved health.

That's a little personal update from me. As I look into this next chapter, I'm figuring out where I want to go with my blog. And really, where I want to go with my life?!

Blessings,

Emily