Mr. Michael at Publix

Dear Vivian Ross,
During the first little bit after you started to walk (October 2010), I let you down out of my arms in the grocery store while talking to "Mr. Michael." Mr. Michael is a fellow that is about 30ish and has Downs Syndrome. It was the first time we had met him and he was describing how much he loved your name, how he wished he could have a family one day, and how he would love to have a little girl just like you. Now, keep in mind that you are a MAMA's girl. And when I say Mama's girl, giiiiiiirl, I mean it. You don't jump at the chance to go to anyone else but Mama most days, and squeal when we try to push you into hugging on anyone but Mama and Daddy. So, here Mr. Michael and I were... talking... and you walked right over to Mr. Michael, let him pick you up, and hugged his sweet neck for what felt like hours, although I am sure it was only moments... It was then that I realized, amongst others sweet moments, that you already knew the power of love. Mr. Michael's heart has been yours ever since.

No matter if we are driving into the parking lot, or ready for our groceries to be carried out, Mr. Michael is always ready to see us! He tells you he loves you, he picks you up right out of your car seat, and you light up his life in the most special, special way.

How thankful I am to have a child that knows who needs to feel loved.
Love,
Mama