Tonight's picture was taken in January 2009, as Mattie's friend Abbie was celebrating her 7th birthday. Though Mattie was in a wheelchair, he occasionally could stand for periods of time, and as you can see here, he was motivated and intrigued to share in this moment as Abbie opened her presents. Mattie and Abbie went to preschool and kindergarten together. When Mattie was battling cancer, Abbie was one of his friends that came often to visit him in the hospital. She did not seem to be intimidated by all the foreign hospital noises and smells. But instead was focused on playing and engaging with Mattie. It was a special friendship.
Quote of the day: Many people will walk in and out of your life but only true friends leave footprints in your heart. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
In honor of Abbie's birthday, I contributed to her girl scout troop's fundraiser. The fundraiser is a flocking. In which a flock of pink plastic flamingos get placed on a lawn for a few days to share a message. After the message is delivered, then the flamingos take flight (or are moved by hand by the girl scouts) to the next house taking part in the fundraiser.
1 comment:
Vicki, I love this particular quote quite a lot. I am glad to know of Mattie's special friendship with Abby. Even at a young age, we can be a true friend. I suspect Mattie's friendship meant much more to Abby than any fears, to Abby, MATTIE WAS MATTIE. When I worked and a new child joined the play table, the other kids were very welcoming. Instinctively, I believe, they seem to know immediately if this was a child who would show his port, CVL, or that was just too much. There is the saying, " kids say the darnedest things" yet my observation as the PlayLady is children also read cues from a new child on how to proceed. I never coached or prompted. I just welcomed to whatever we were doing or if they like doing something else. The kids, also in treatment took it from there.i learned so much from the children. I know this is not always what some found when they returned to school. But there were always children like ABBY!
I like that idea of being flocked. It does sound fun!!
I am not in your shoes but experience with other families has taught me that
Children remain in the minds & hearts of their parents, the age, they were when they died. Time and memories go only to the point where they stopped.
Your blogs continue to help me know Mattie better through your memories! Thank you for this gift!
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