I hope everyone had a happy and healthy 4th of July. We went to Rainforest Cafe on the 4th. It has become an annual trip we take on the 4th. In 2006, Matthew really wanted to go there. It is about an hour away and he was already using the wheelchair, so it was very hard for him to get in and out of the car. It was very painful for him when I lifted him in and out of the car, but he really wanted to go. We went there and had a great time that day. We have gone the last 2 years in honor of Matthew. It is funny that we noticed last year that they have huge dragonflies in the place, including one at the big round table. It was nice going there again this year, remembering how much fun Matthew had. This was Dylan's first time there...slept the whole time. I wish every day that Matthew was still here with us. I know he is watching over us and will always be in our hearts, but I want to hug him, have him wipe my kisses off his cheeks, play Xbox with him and hear him do his cartoon voices. Matthew would have been entering Jr. High next year, it is so hard to see his friends and wonder what Matthew would be in to. Would he still like Spongebob, would he have short or long hair? It is hard to think like that. But we are truly blessed to be visited by Matthew, the bunnies and dragonflies visit often and I smile each time I see one of his signs. We are getting ready for the playground dedication next week at GKTW. I don't know how I will be. I'm sure it will be very emotional, but the village holds nothing but happy memories for us. I just know that Matthew will be watching down over us. A great friend of mine from work passed away a few weeks back and I just know that Lew and Matthew will be watching over us that day. Lew was a great friend who was there for me during Matthew's journey. He was a great friend and I know that I will see him again. I couldn't have picked a better person to watch over Matthew until I am reunited with him. I promise to post photos when I get back. It will nice to see some other parents whose lives have been affected by DIPG. I am looking forward to seeing the Lipski's and Christine Martin. I'm not sure who else lives near the Village, but it would be great to see any other families that may be near by. Please keep those prayers coming for those children currently battling DIPG (and other childhood cancers), as well as praying for the continued comfort of those who's children are waiting for them in heaven. If I can help any other family in any way, please don't ever be afraid to ask me anything. I want to help in any way I can. Thanks for checking in on us...hope you all are staying cool this summer. God Bless. Rich
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