Hodgepodge

(Today's post is going to seem a little disjointed as I have several unrelated things to write about.)

Yesterday I mentioned that I was looking forward to going to more model horse events soon, including Nancy Falzone's gathering at the end of this month, and that is true - I love gatherings more than I love shows! 

Nancy and me at BreyerFest, 2019.

But... this is all going to depend on the status of the migraines and whatever is causing me to go numb in various parts of my body. You just can't drive when you can't feel your hands, nor do you want to be picking up chinas, either! And, if your vision is blurring from a migraine, driving is not a good idea, either.

So, I am planning on going to Nancy's, the Clover Classic, and BreyerFest, I'm hoping to go, but ultimately it will be a last minute decision.

Next... the Kentucky Derby! What a surprise to have Mage pull it off. And did anyone else see the "chalky" horse being led down the track?

That's Cyclone Mischief. Look at how sharp and straight the edges of his blaze are! How white it is! The view of that bright white blaze from my television made him look like a chalky horse and almost cartoonish. I had to snap a photo and share it.

This last part is a bit sad and not horsey at all. Still, I want to acknowledge Marie and the heroic efforts her family made for her.

Marie was the sister of two of my former students. She had a very rare chromosomal disease, Ring 14, and was one of only 17 children with it worldwide. Her sisters, young as they were, loved her fiercely and were absolutely devoted to her. The family started a research foundation and have been working to help other families who have a member with Ring 14 and other rare diseases.

Halloween, 2008. Marie's family had dropped by to trick or treat at my home. Marie fell in love with our black lab, Zeus, and followed him around my living room. Zeus came over and sat voluntarily by her for the picture, and Craig happened to snap just as Marie leaned out of her mother's arms to hug him.

Marie passed away Saturday night and needless to say, the family is devastated. I was close to this family and they have remained in touch with me since moving to Texas several years ago. They are one of those families a teacher holds in her heart and never forgets.

Rest in peace, sweet Marie. You were fiercely loved, and you will be fiercely missed. Despite your brief life, you made a difference and brought joy to many. Love always, Mrs. I.

If you want more information on Ring 14, the Dewoodys' foundation site is  here: https://ring14usa.com/?subscribe=success#subscribe-blog-1