Let's Build a Better World

I have heard, "It takes a village..." I have also heard "there are... half a million people with Down syndrome in the United States alone, or just about one on every other street corner."(Michael Berube). That's roughly the population of Washington D.C. and based on those numbers I would say we can build a better World. I know Gavin is busy building a better World. Every day he builds friendships, he changes attitudes and he spreads joy. Navigating "Normalville," does require wearing a hard hat(and sometimes the use of a hammer). When I see this smile I know no matter how long the construction takes it is worth the effort.

Your Heart Will Stay

Every now and then
We find a special friend
Who never lets us down
Who understands it all
Reaches out each time you fall
You're the best friend that I've found
I know you can't stay
A part of you will never ever go away
Your heart will stay

* I'll make a wish for you
And hope it will come true
That life would just be kind
To such a gentle mind
If you lose your way
Think back on yesterday
Remember me this way
Remember me this way
Hmm……….. this way

I don't need eyes to see
The love you bring to me
No matter where I go
And I know that you'll be there
Forever more apart of time, you're everywhere
I'll always care
*

And I'll be right behind your shoulder watching you
I'll be standing by your side and all you do
And I won't ever leave
As long as you believe
You just believe
*

Forever Love my Angel

Dear Sweet Julia,

From the moment I saw you, I knew you were the one. Wherever you were that is where I wanted to be, and the line was long behind me. Everything we did together was the best. Just hanging out eating Cheetos and pretzels, watching a movie. Partying on birthdays -- hamming it up for the camera. Bouncing in the bounce house. Blowing bubbles. Chalking the sidewalk. Sharing toys and sharing stories. Our stories, that no one else knew. As if your beauty wasn't enough, you're smile and laugh were like a magnet. For you I would do anything... and be happy doing nothing. Just laying around, snuggling and holding hands.

I can't imagine trick-or-treating without you. As a fairy, or a princess... no one could sparkle more. I can't imagine prom without you. I can't imagine anything without you.

My mom joked that your family better like us, because we were going to be together for a long, long time. She knew the way I doted on you that I was a goner. My heart was spoken for and I could only hope you felt the same way.

I guess God felt I needed an angel more than a girlfriend, because that's what you are now. I sure will miss my girlfriend... every minute of everyday. Someday, when I see you again, I hope you'll save a dance for me.

I love you Julia.
February 26, 2002 - February 27, 2009