Generosity

Daryn could be described as a very generous person. She seemed to always want to please those around her. She was polite and kind and fun and active. I sometimes think of her as an old soul. She could sit and have a conversation with you like she was a mature adult, sometimes seeming so wise beyond her years; but then turn around and just be a kid and having loads of fun. She was special in many ways. She cared for others, not just people but animals too. That was her nature.

She always was serious about the things she did, nothing was done half-way. Some examples are decorating cupcakes (see pic) last april she was over for kaila's b-day and the girls decorated cupcakes, I soon notice Daryn decorating her's; taking her time, adding little details ( one thing I wanted to add was how the other girls seemed to noticed how she was taking her time and followed her example trying to add some extra detail as well, what a role model she already was). Also how she cared for her siblings, aways keeping an eye on Jolee and Colin, always the responsible "little mom". Her art work is another example of this. If you look at her artwork the details of it are quite amazing (which will be highlighted on our benefit t-shirts on April 27). Every little part of it she took her time and made it her own. I think that comes from her parents, who also take time to think about things and do them the "right" way.

She was and I would believe IS a reflection of her parents, and the values they taught her. That is the Daryn I remember, never a problem, always a "please" , "thank-you", soft-spoken (although she could let out some big 'ol screams when running around playing). We all miss her and continue to pray for Joe and Kim and Colin and Jolee. They need the prayers. Time passes but I am not sure if it really heals or if it is just learning how to live with the immense pain.
I just recently read that; "We were never promised that this life would be easy, but that it would be Worth it." That moment Will come when Daryn is reunited with her family, a beautiful moment it will be!

I am happy to say that the people that are working together to put on this benefit have also been extremely generous. I am amazed by all of the donations of time, raffle items, the list goes on and on. I for one know that this is going to be a successful event. It doesn't even matter how much money we make (although with all of this generosity it will be an awesome amount!)

Ticket sales are somewhere close to 350 right now, which is great. If you still want to attend please contact one of us before April 20th, the date that the caterer needs a number of people.
We just added some great golf packages including one membership to Arrowhead Golf in Lowell and another great one, two U of M football tickets, that will be raffled. If you would like a complete raffle list or tickets please email: mpolak@altelco.net.

Thank you all again!
Mindy P.