A few months ago I received a large manila envelope in the mail. It came from my mother, and it contained an award certificate that I had apparently received. In the 7th grade. My mother, bless her heart, is somewhat of a packrat. And I mean that in the best, most positive sense of the word.
In a way, I'm glad she kept it for so long. You never know when a 20-year-old, partially signed, dubiously worded award certificate will be needed—maybe for a smart-alec blog entry. Or, maybe, if I need another job some day, I can add it to my résumé: contributed to the physical well being of the youth of our nation. Impressive.
Come to think of it, my physical fitness level has been in a long, steady decline ever since I received that "award." Could it be that Alfie Kohn was right when he wrote the controversial book, Punished By Rewards: The Trouble with Gold Stars, Incentive Plans, A's, Praise, and Other Bribes?
Uncle Fred says that you've not only contributed to the physical well being of the youth of our nation, you've also contributed some pretty remarkable youth to our nation. Now that's an accomplishment!
You always had to follow in my foot steps when it came to good things didn't you? That is not the only thing she saved. You have blue, red and yellow ribbins and trophies in all kinds of sports. Not to mention your first baby clothes and shoes. (well all your clothes from growing years) Not to mention your baby toys.(well all your toys from growing years) I don't think she is a pack rat. Wait she has your brothers stuff as well. Wait she has your fathers stuff as well. Wait She has you grandmothers stuff as well. And so on and so on. Her house must be bigger than the White House. Maybe she is a little pack rat. But I still love her any way.
I heartily second your Aunt Ginny's sentiments!
Great to see you and your family last week. Look for pics in the mail. There are a few of Lucia that just break my heart they're so sweet!
Love,
Nicole
I thought that your Mother's gesture gave new meaning to the term "pack rat". She is obviously passing on something to you that represented a precious memory to her, and says something about her love for you. I also thought that Dean's comments were insightful and sensitive and funny, all at the same time.