Without a Word_ How a Boy's Unspoken Love Changed Everything - Jill Kelly [51]
February 17, 2005 (The Reptile Guy)—I can’t believe I allowed a baby alligator to sit on your lap. I know how much you like Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter, but having one in our house is crazy, don’t you think? It’s a good thing you and Robert are so brave, because Mommy doesn’t like alligators. I still can’t believe all the creatures Mr. Jeff brought to the house today. I’m so happy you and Robert were able to enjoy everything, just the two of you (and the paparazzi, of course). I know you had a blast with all the animals.
My favorite part of today was when Robert washed your hair in the Jacuzzi. I’m crying just thinking about it. He loves you so much. He really wanted to sleep over tonight, too. It broke my heart to tell him no. Maybe he can some other time, okay, buddy? What an unbelievable friendship you boys have.
March 25, 2005—Hunterboy, thank you for praying at our prayer party the other day. I would love to hear what you said to Jesus. Did you tell Him that you want a horse? Grammie is trying to convince me to buy a horse for you and your sisters. She’s even talked to Aunt Chris about it. I think we’ll stick with riding Bambi and watching Young Black Stallion.
Your new teacher, Ms. Bonnie, is wonderful, isn’t she? I thought Ms. Susan was great, but God continues to surprise us.
The eggs you colored today are beautiful, young man. Easter is in a couple days and I just might have to hide some of your eggs, if that’s okay. I know you’ve been reading through the story of the resurrection. This is our hope, Hunter, the one we cling to with all that we are. Jesus is more than a Rescue Hero. He did it all so that you and I have hope beyond this life… hope beyond your suffering. There will be a day when you will finish this race, and when you do, Jesus will be there to carry you over the finish line. One day at a time, soldier.
April 7, 2005—What a great band practice the Hopesters had today [Hunter’s little band, made up of our family and members of Team Hunter]. You were jamming along right to the beat with your bells, Hunter. You have always loved music, so it’s fitting that you would be in a band. Justin [my cousin] loves practicing with you. I think if he could, he would teach you how to play the guitar. He would do anything for you.
Hunter is 46 inches tall now and growing, and he weighs 52.5 pounds.
May 7, 2005—Hunter, I don’t know if you know this or not, but Robert has been over seven times in the last month. Wow. I really like the new tie-dye shirt he got you. We’ll have to make sure you wear it the next time he comes over.
Erin’s birthday party was so fun, wasn’t it? She turned double-digits, ten years old. Do you like her new pet hamster, Winslow? He kind of smells, and you know Mommy’s going to have to clean his cage because Erin will probably forget. Gross.
Even though your sister is busy with school and her friends, she always makes time for you. She loves you so much. Erin has asked me a few times if she could take care of you and sleep with you through the night, but I told her no. I’m sorry that I can’t let her, Hunter. I know you understand.
May 26, 2005—Thank you for planting flowers with me today. You’re more beautiful than all the flowers in the whole world. You lost two teeth in the last week—way to go!
July 2, 2005—Hunter, you have the best, best friend in the world. Today was “new van day” and your buddy Robert insisted on trying out your wheelchair in the van before you got in. He wanted to make sure you would be able to tolerate your new ride. What an amazing friend.
Once we had him strapped into your Quickie wheelchair and rolled into the back of the van, you should have heard him, Hunter. He made sure we knew exactly how every single bump felt. He was very still and so serious. We told him he could relax, but he said, “This is