When we lived in Grand Junction, CO and you were two and a half
years old, Halloween happened. Your Dad and I cut holes in a paper sack, for eyes, nose and mouth, then colored it. We put it on you and explained that when you knocked on the door and said "Trick or Treat" the lady would give you some candy. (You weren't too danged sure about the prospects and you could not figure out why you had to 'wear' that dumb paper sack.) So, your Dad took you across the street and you knocked on the door...when the lady came and opened it, you stepped inside, pulled that sack off your head and said, "Give me some candy". I happened to be thinking of that the other night and actually started chuckling at the memory. So I wrote it to Ruth and she answered and said she remembers funny things too, mainly through the grandkids, she said they seemed to understand you better than we 'big' people did. She's very correct. Kids and dogs both loved you and once again - you know what W.C. Fields said about that!!
We finally have sunshine and spring, my roses are blooming and I just planted a special one in the planter you put up on the wall of the house. It is beautiful...just as you were Shawn. I still miss you and cannot even begin to know what happened to this (almost year) since you've been gone. But I listen to the song "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" that Carolyn played at the end of your service - and I shed some tears for both because you're gone and - I think to a better place than here.
I love you,
Your Mama

And this is the first time I have ever known it to be so gray for such a long period of time. It's making everyone nuts!! I hope it's sunny and bright where you are. I really don't have a lot to say and yet, there is so much that I could write about, like how many $$ I had to spend for taxes this year. That really ticks me. I don't mind paying taxes but they take way too much. I remember those great conversations we used to have about how the 'powers that be' are trying to make slaves of us all and they have almost succeeded. In that way, at least, you are free from all of this earthly mundane 'stuff'. Yes, I do have a lot to be thankful for but some days I just get plain weary. I think this is how you used to feel at times as well. I'm looking forward to going to our favorite place in Sparks when the weather finally clears up?
So, Shawn, just another note to say 'hello' and that I miss you and your witty ways. It would be nice if you could somehow show me a sign that you are happy where you are.
With love from your Mama