Favorite Valentine

Aside from the 22 bookmarks Axel made for his school Valentine party last week, with a vacation last week and a 7-year-old birthday this week, Valentines didn't get made for many of our special friends.  We did find the time however to create 1 special card for a dear neighbor who will be heading to heaven soon.

Although we are relatively new to Arden Hills we quickly learned that one special man had much to do with the brand new playground and trails connecting us to Axel's school and the beach.  Don Messerly serves on the Parks and Trails Committee with me and has recently decided to decline further cancer treatments.

Last summer we were coming home from the pool and there was as vintage bike sitting in Don's yard.  $15 was posted on the sign.  I have never seen Axel move so fast.  He counted out $15 in quarters from his piggy bank and proudly brought them to Don's door.

"Now you make sure it works alright for you, otherwise you get your money back" he told Axel – cautioning him to be careful.  Many days last fall the single-speed Huffy Superstar was locked to the bike rack at Axel's Elementary – offering nostalgia to parents and grandparents.

One special Valentine was all we needed needed this year to keep our hearts warm – one that will hopefully brighten a few spirits in the difficult weeks to come.