Author: Ali Abplanalp
Last night, I stood in a giant ballroom in downtown Kansas City looking at a “cube” above a bar – a cube that performers will be dancing inside of at tonight’s Red Hot Night gala- and I couldn’t help but think of Melissa. You see, Melissa had a penchant for finding her way onstage to dance and perform alongside the band when she had the chance, and I couldn’t help but think, “if Melissa were here tomorrow, she’d love to spice it up and would find her way inside that cube and have us all smiling and cheering her on.” As we all know, no matter the size, no matter the celebration, Melissa was always the life of the party.
Her big smile, caring heart and fun-loving spirit were infectious. She was always up for a good time, had just the right amount of “cute ornery” about her, and was sure to make everyone around her lighten up and just enjoy the moment. Every year, I’d love wandering out to the dance floor to Melissa onstage with the band. Whether it was Liquid Blue in from LA or local favorite, Lost Wax, she was alongside them, dancing, tambourine-ing and living life to its fullest. For Type A, control-lovers like myself it was almost cathartic to watch Melissa be so buttoned up in her crisp white shirt and perfect skirt that would make even Jackie-O jealous then be able to let loose so easily and give into life. And it was authentic. You knew because it never crossed the line to embarrassing or someone who’d had too much to drink. It was Melissa. She rocked it. And we were all jealous.
Even when Jeff used her fur as a display for another auction item and the winner took her coat instead, she rolled with the punches. And the time when there was a decorative giant glass vase with water and floating candles on her table but it broke and 5 gallons of water poured out everywhere, she was laughing and moving tables before I could studder something apologetically stupid. I often wish I had more “Melissa” in me.
Blessed with a husband who loved her fiercely, and always will, I’m grateful Jeff introduced Melissa into my life. This Red Hot Night we’ll toast a drink to you Melissa. Thank you for always being the life of the party, helping everyone have a good time and showing us how to live your best life.
P.S. Thank you for also volunteering at the hospital with the Children’s Relief Association. You not only talked the talk, but you walked the walk (or in your case, danced the dance).
