In April we decided to move forward with a multipurpose headquarters for AHP. It was located in downtown Norfolk, close to CHKD and we thought (read: THOUGHT) it was perfect for us. Unfortunately that location was taken from us. After papers were sign, a deposit was paid (and cashed), I was allowed in to measure and plan. All the things. We were crushed. Not only for our organization but because this occurred when we asked about our guests who may have companion dogs. The Americans with Disabilities Act and Fair Housing Act were disregarded and the property was taken from us. (You can read the entire story here.) What's that saying... when one door closes a hot pink one opens?

Within an hour of discovering that “Apricity Place” was taken from us, I flipped my phone on and saw a PINK house that was posted 2 days prior. My mom, Benji and I were able to quickly go see this place - despite my notion to just take a break from this insane idea. Maybe the house was taken from us because it's a big business leap and it's not the right time?? Or maybe... just maybe there really was something better out there for us.

Lorelei taught me so much in her short life... but she made sure I learned that things can happen in unexpected ways and still be amazing. (She also taught me to only believe something will happen WHEN IT ACTUALLY HAPPENS.)

Last week I was having a conversation with my sweet girl in heaven. I told her that while she was here with me physically, I took care of her. Every single day. Every single way. And right now, at a pivotal moment for my nonprofit, I need her to take care of me. If a headquarters and retreat house was supposed to happen - I needed her to show me that it really was supposed to happen. Lorelei took the assignment very seriously. She was like “hold my beer mama!”

I have officially signed a lease, paid the deposit and will have keys-in-hand on June 1st for our new Apricity Hope Project Headquarters! Eeeeek!

She is pink. She has mermaids and flamingos everywhere. She comes furnished. She is on the water. She has a tiki bar. She has a mini private beach. She has a hammock. She has a water view from every room. She is everything Lorelei would have ever, EVER, wanted in a dream house. And she is going to be the Apricity Hideaway.

Y'all. My girl is MAGIC. AND WE HAVE THE MOST AMAZING HEADQUARTERS POSSIBLE. I am still in shock at HOW we got here, but I'm choosing to cling to the hope, light and positivity... and the pink.

Your support has been incredible. As you can imagine, our expenses are going to increase as we make this huge PINK leap. 

The AHP team is excited to offer annual sponsorship opportunities so that YOU (or your business) can be a part of the Apricity Hideaway! 

See all of the options here or click in the top right! 

Thank you for your continued support. Please let me know if you have any questions or want to volunteer to help serve our guests!

With hope, Lorelei + Benji's Mama, 

Susan Geoghegan

Executive Director + Founder, Apricity Hope Project