You descended here on Earth, sent from the Heaven's above
A little bundle of joy, for your mother and dad to love
Quickly you grew into a kind, caring man
And touched the lives of many, my sweet loving Dan
  
Like a warm summer breeze the days went by
You tested your wings and learned to fly
Lost at first, you finally found your way
Into my heart you will safely fstay
 
When the light shined down on you
Angles waiting to bring you home
You returned to Heaven from which you came
In peace and never alone

Your time here in the physical world,
As short as it may have been
Was enough for you to spread your love
Amen

~ Amy Quonce

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Dan,

I want to thank you for being part of my life. Our time together was cut short, but I am greatful that we made the most of what we did have together. You were always there for me, and never for a moment did I ever question your love. I'm so sorry that I never got to say good-bye, but I know that you will be waiting at the pearly gates to welcome me into Heaven, then we can just kiss each other hello again. It will just take me a little longer to accomplish what I need to do here, so please be patient. I am sure you are watching over me until then, as I can feel you with me on most days. It helps to ease the pain knowing you are still near. I don't ever want that feeling to fade.

Today you would have turned 51. We're going to celebrate by taking you to the races. You'd really get a kick out it. They are running an extra lap just for you, and your brother and I get to present the winner with their check. It's a pretty big deal. The guys at the race track loved you just as much as I do. I hope you know how much you meant to everyone.

As much as I told myself I wasn't going to cry, my tears are getting in the way so I must stop writing for now. There is still so much say, and eventually I will be able to express it to you. Until then I'm giving you a great big kiss, and holding you tight in my arms. I couldn't think of a better birthday present to give you than that.


Happy 1st Birthday in Heaven, Dan.
I love you honey.
I DO I DO I DO  !!!

Love forever and always,
your wife Aimee

XOXOXOXOXO
<3  <3  <3  <3  <3

Have you ever had the chance to pet an elephant, watch penguins being fed or spent an exclusive night at the zoo while it was closed to the public? Neither have I until tonight.

Our Dream Night at the zoo (hosted by the Rosmand Gifford Zoo) was a spectacular evening for families who have a loved one with a disability to spend quality time with the animals in a sensory friendly environment. Special demonstrations, exhibits, and fun activities were planned for all, including dinner and snacks (glutten free as well!).

This staff and volunteers at tonight's event did a marvelous job and despite the mild rain, there was a huge smile on everyone's face. My favorite part of the night? Nearly getting eaten by a tiger...but that's a story for another day!