It is my desire that Michael’s name always be remembered. That he is not forgotten. That his memory will always live on.
Michael’s 10th birthday is coming up on July 1st. Double Digits. He would have been so excited about his day. We had just discussed possible party plans on that Wednesday. Before that terrible Thursday.
With that in mind, I have a big request. I would like to see Michael’s name spelled out in as many ways as possible. I would like to see his name in many settings. From many people. Handwrite his name, spell it out with objects, skywrite it. It doesn’t matter. Just write his name. Be creative. Be big. Be small. Take a picture. And remember him, say his name.
And then send me the picture. If you would like, include a story of where you were and why you wrote his name there. Or send the picture and a memory. Or just send the picture. I'm not picky. E-mail is fine. I will post the photos on my blog (iloveyoubest.blogspot.com) or perhaps a flickr gallery. I haven't quite decided on the logistics as yet. I think it depends on how many photos I receive. But I will keep you informed. I would like to eventually put them into a photo book.
I do have one request, if I may be so bold. If you are going, know someone who is going, or know someone who works at Hollywood Studios – would you or ask them to get a picture with Michael’s name with some of the characters or attractions from Star Wars Weekend? This upcoming weekend is the last for the Star Wars Weekends. We were to have visited there two weekends ago. We went last year and loved it.
I got the idea from another blog, MckMama (http://www.mycharmingkids.net/2008/08/eventually-these-photographs-will-be-in.html). I didn’t want to take her idea without giving credit. This link will take you directly to her son’s name gallery.
Will you help? Send this request to friends far and wide. Post on your blogs. Perhaps your facebook page. Or your work break room. Wouldn’t it be fun to have names from across the globe? I would be so touched. So honored.
I would love to have lots of photos prior to his birthday (July 1), but would certainly keep collecting well after that. Again, not picky. Just want my boy to be remembered by many.
Send your photos to jenndooley at yahoo.com. Or mail them to us if that is easier.
Can’t wait to see them! Thanks for entertaining this slightly off the wall request!
Much Love,
Jenn Dooley
5 comments:
Jenn - I found your blog through Chad Waisath's post on Facebook. I went to South, too. I think you were in my sister's class - Mandie Smith.
I am so very sorry for your loss. You and Stu will be in my prayers.
May you find peace during these tough days and months ahead.
Love,
Tara Smith Adkisson
I'm definitely going to take a picture, and I'm getting my friends to take some, too. My picture will be a bit late; I'll be taking it at Kennedy Space Center while I work there July 5-17.
Michael's going to love these.
My dear fellow mother..I do not know you, but many of my friends knew your son and they have passed this sorrow on to me. I got your blog from an e-mail from Kim (Polka dot press) I added you to my blog, I live here in the same city as you. I want you to meet my friend Kelly, she reached out so mothers just like you and I think you will find a common bond with her. Her blog is www.sufficientgrace-kelly.blogspot.com
Just visit her blog and leave her a message or e-mail you, I PROMISE she will contact you. She has walked your road for a while now.
I wish there was something I could do, but besides Saying HIs Name, that is all I can do, and I WILL.
I ache for you and want to hug you. I can tell you are an amazing amazing mother. I promise to try harder. I will say his name, too.
Dearest Jenn,
I received the link to your site from Tammy on the Go and am amazed by what you have done in remembrance of your son. I have lost two brothers but cannot imagine the pain and sheer agony of losing a child. You are so brave and so courageous. I think, no I know, your son would be proud of your many tributes to him. I think he was, inded, an amazing child.
Something someone said to me lingers in my thoughts today. As I prayed for you, I felt impressed in my spirit to share the following words with you. Today, they may have no meaning, but, in days to come, they may bring a comfort to your lonely heart.
"Those we love are with the Lord and the Lord has promised to be with us. If they are with Him, and He is with us, then they cannot be far away."
Michael is closer than you think. He comes with God each time God comes to comfort you.
My thoughts, my prayers, and my love are with you.
In Grace,
Marie
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