I love music. Both my kids love music. (My husband loves music, but thinks no decent music was made after his high school days.) I love going to see my favorite bands, and look for opportunities to expose my kids to good music. Like last summer, the boys and I headed out for our Bumbershoot adventure. We braved the crowds, we ate our favorite foods. This year was grilled hotdogs for the boys, Thai curry for me, and a brick (literally) of shoestring fries. The highlight for Mitch was to go see The Flobots, but what we didn’t expect, since I had never followed their music, was that 10,000 other people had the same idea. For Kyle and I it was the Old 97s. They have a song called “King of All the World” that used to be Mitch’s favorite song, then Kyle played it so much we all got sick of it, which was the case with most of Kyle’s music. They were great. Kyle loves watching bands, and inevitably he would start drumming along and nodding his head to the beat. Everytime they would finish a song and people were clapping, Kyle would scream out, “King o’ Word”. In the end, they played all the favorites, but not that one song. Kyle was disgusted, stomped his foot, raised his hand palm up, and kept on saying, “Mom, why no King o’ Word?”
Even though Kyle didn’t get to hear his song, I knew from his swagger that day (the one you saw when he walked down the halls or when you saw him on the street) that he really did feel like the king of all the world.
I have so many memories of Kyle. Here is just a small sampling.
ReplyDeleteI loved hearing his stories about raccoon spottings. He was so animated when he told about seeing a raccoon. I never knew how much of the stories were truth, versus imagination.
He loved to play chase. I have such fond memories of hanging out on summer afternoons at your house on Rose with the kids all joyfully running around...sometimes Kyle would get extra mischievous and would spray them with a hose or a squirt gun.
Back when we had the van, I often found Kyle in the backseat, buckled and ready. He was always on the look out for a great adventure.
He was such an easy going guy. He went with the flow and didn't seem to complain much. I always appreciated that in Kyle. When the other kids would throw a fit, Kyle seemed to take life in stride.
Kyle had such a zest for life. Brock says that Kyle was a very popular kid at Sakai and that he liked to high-5 all of his friends.
My life was blessed by knowing Kyle. I will miss him greatly.
kyle you rock and roll
ReplyDeleteWorking with Kyle at Ordway and Sakai has been such a joy. What I will always remember about Kyle is his joy and enthusiam and great sense of humor. On our daily walks around the highschool track he would always stop to gaze with wonder at a worm or a crack in the sidewalk spilling ants. And he loved to scare the crows, he never did get tired of that. Very often we would meet a lady and her dog Ruby also out for a walk. Ruby was always so excited to see Kyle and jumped on him and gave him kisses which he loved. I will never forget one time as we were walking around the track there were some runners obviously training for a race. We moved into the outside lanes and kept on walking when suddenly the runners sprinted by. Kyle's face lit up instantly and off he went running full speed after them. Ms. V ran off after him but as soon as the runners noticed him they smiled and cheered him on. He was so proud of himself. Every time after that, whenever we would see the runners, they would always invite Kyle to run along with them. He never ever met a stranger! I have lots of terrific memories of things shared with Kyle that I will hold dear. I am so proud to have known him.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I didn't know Kyle personally, I knew of Kyle. He was a huge presence at Ordway and in the three years that my children were in school with him, I felt lucky to be able stand in his light. I'd watch him on the playground sometimes, or at the pool or just hanging out around school. He always said Hi, always smiled... just seemed like a happy kid. My favorite memory of him was seeing him play the recorder with his 4th grade class during the winter program 2007. I don't remember what song they were playing. Maybe "Lean On Me"? Anyway, Kyle rocked it. He played loud and not every note was right, but he looked like he was having a BLAST and I remember so many of his classmates giggling a little bit behind their recorders. It was just a great moment. Like I said before, I feel lucky to have caught a little handful of his bright, happy light. I'll keep it in my pocket.
ReplyDeleteI've been away from the island for 3 years now, and I still tell new people I meet "Kyle stories." If you are a really, really fortunate teacher, you might have a Kyle in your teaching (and personal) life.
ReplyDeleteThe things I loved most about Kyle is his sense of fun and sense of humor. I laughed every day because of Kyle, multiple times. One of my favorite Kyle stories took place when he was in Claudia's first grade classroom. I was the FS teacher that year and often checked on Kyle during the day. One week, the classroom para reported that Kyle was being "rowdy" in class periodically. I checked on Kyle multiple times every day and every time I walked into the classroom, Kyle was hard at work...quiet, pencil or book in hand. His para insisted that Kyle "knew I was coming" and would "straighten up" micro-seconds before I walked into the room. I couldn't figure it out. He couldn't see me coming and he didn't know my schedule, but this happened day after day. Every time I saw Kyle, he would wave, smile sweetly, wiggle his eyebrows and get back to work. Clearly, he was clairvoyant. I puzzled over this every day. One afternoon, I thought I would change my schedule and pay Kyle another "surprise visit". Again, I walked into the room to find Kyle the model of gentlemanly behavior. Seconds before my arrival, the adults reported, Kyle was enjoying a good laugh with his table-mates, being a tad rowdy when he looked at his friends, eyes wide and whispered..."Shhhhh, Listen. Belt is coming!" and promptly became a model citizen. Kyle, the clever boy, knew that few people in the school wore high heels everyday....and he knew that the loud "clack, clack" in the hallway meant one thing.....Belt was coming!
I still laugh when I think of it.
Loved that boy.
I miss Kyle very, very much, I am Chandon Toyama- Tupai, I miss Kyle already!, without Kyle it's like my whole world came crashing down I mean c'mon I was with Kyle since Kindergarten, yeah maybe we never really got to hang out, or anything but he was my freind. Boy I have a lot of memories with Kyle, I really want Kyle to be here, everyone does, but as I see it Kyle's in a better place now. I loved the way Kyle was just so creative in class, the things he could do were..., just amazing!,I mean how much he loved coloring, and drumming!. It's just so much memories I've had with Kyle I was like, crying and crying I could barely let go I feel sometimes, Kyle talks to me. and all I know is I have a freind FOREVER and umm I hope you feel better. Man I Miss Him :(
ReplyDeleteKyle and I began our music relationship when Mitch was a baby. Tammy was out, Mitch was in his high-chair eating and Kyle and I were drumming on the dining room table to Foghat playing "Slow Ride." Kyle discovered his passion for drumming that day and never skipped a beat. Every morning before school our family spent 30 minutes or more talking and listening to music. As Tammy noted, one of Kyle's favorite songs was "King of the World" and he absolutely wore us out by insisting that be played daily and over & over. Thankfully he moved on to Big & Rich, but after 2+ years of daily listening, that too became a bit much for the rest of us. It made Kyle so happy, though, that we always gave in and Big & Rich was part of our daily routine.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if I will ever be able to hear Big & Rich and not shed a tear. We saw them live in the fall of 2007 and I can still see the look of pure excitement and awe on Kyle's face. Shortly after that, I discovered a concert program on Direct TV and they had a Big & Rich concert video. I recorded that for Kyle and that, too, became part of his daily routine. In between Scooby Doo episodes, he would watch his favorite band and either accompany on drums or just listen while he was busy arranging his cars on the "ferry." Kyle was also fascinated with the ferry and loved to ride it to Seattle or to sit and arrange cars and trucks on his own ferry.
I miss you terribly, son. You made me so proud and you taught me so much. When you were born we were so worried you would struggle with school and with fitting in and you instead met life with a big smile and a willingness to try anything.
I miss sitting with you waiting for the raccoons in the morning and chasing you up the stairs to bed at night.
I have so many wonderful memories to thank you for and I am so grateful for the trip you and I took last summer. I love you, punkin man.
David
ReplyDeleteKyle was a number crunching, raccoon loving, one of a kind guy. He enjoyed taking out the trash from our classroom and drawing. Everyone like to watch him rock out with a tennis racket "guitar". Man I don't know what to do with out him. I miss you Kyle.
i think that kyle is very special not just to me to everyone. kyle was a great person. I hope he had a great life,it lo9oked like he had a great life so i am happy for him. i loved that he like Scooby-Doo because i like Scooby-Doo too. kyle was VERY cool. one day in band class when i first got her kyle and i were sitting out because i was resting then we both had maracas and started to play he looked at me and he was smiling like it was fun so i was glade. kyle was a Great guy. i miss kyle
ReplyDeleteRemember when I was over and we hung out in the music room and Kyle was on the drums and I was telling him to beat those drums - hard! Yeah, well - he beat them hard alright!!
ReplyDeleteI spent many years with Kyle at Ordway doing occupational therapy with him. Three of his favorite activities throughout the ages continued to be:
ReplyDeleteKyle directing me to draw Scooby Doo cartoons at snack time in the functional skills room - "Make Scooby Doo on a car" - "Make Scooby Doo on a guitar" - "Make Scooby Doo with a dog" Who knew Scooby Doo could be so active?
Mixing up words on purpose and laughing uproariously about them. He really understood the joke behind the mixup. Kyle called his teacher Megan Belt - "Monkey Butt" and later just plain old "Belt." Another therapist Mary F. would call Kyle, "Myle Kelby" and he would crack up with his deep, hearty laugh.
Last but not least, ever since he was a little boy he would love to grab at my upper torso. When he was in second grade I told him that he could not do that and he replied, with a big grin, "I do" and he roared with laughter.
I will miss his deep hearty laugh. Robin
I love Kyle and how much he loved raccoons, the drums, and even just playing on the monkey bars with me at recess. Most of all I loved the time when we were on the boat going to the Seattle children's Theater and Kyle was drawing. Sitting right behind us was an architect me and my friends kept trying to get Kyle to look at the beautiful house he was drawing. Eventually we got him to go over and sit right across from this man that none of us even knew. This guy stayed mellow and was like 'do you like these?' Kyle loved them. Then the man let Kyle take some of his tracing paper and draw over the houses that he had drawn.
ReplyDeleteI think that Kyle loved it because whenever in the morning he got to draw, we would ask him what he was drawing he always said your house.
I also think that the man letting Kyle enjoyed it, he was smiling and happy.
<3 Larissa <3
I met Kyle through my son John. John had the honor of becoming Kyle's counselor for Out Door Ed last spring. The experience my son had with Kyle is one he continues to talk about and will remember for a life time. I am very thankful to Kyle for sharing this time with John.
ReplyDeleteFour years ago my little girl Keara started kindergarten at Ordway, and Kyle rode the bus to and from school with her. Keara was always first off the bus at the end of the day. Since the first day of school, Kyle would salute Keara as his goodbye guesture. Keara and I loved this and we would always salute him back. To this day Keara and I often salute each other goodbye and we usually mention Kyle when we do this. It still makes us laugh and smile.
ReplyDeleteAs my BRIDGE Fitness student for the past 3 years, Kyle always brought a sense of fun to class. He developed a love for the steamroller move he learned in our aikido unit and it became one of his favorite dance moves during our dance unit. At any moment during a free dance, Kyle was known to break out in a steamroller and you had to keep on your toes to stay clear of his body rolling across the floor with a good bit of speed. Before BRIDGE Fitness the kids eat lunch together and often talk about their favorite music. I learned this year that one of Kyle's favorite tunes was Big and Rich's "Ride A Horse, Save a Cowboy." The mere mention of this song would send him galloping around the room while playing the air drums. It was hard to reel him back in because his whole spirit became carried away with the music in his head. He was a musical boy with a singing soul. I will miss him so much. Karen Kilbane
I have known Kyle for many years as his occupational therapist..and what a rascal. He always made me laugh. During movement groups for exercise, he would be playing air guitar. During handwriting practice, he would hide the worksheets I placed on the table, when I went to get a pencil and he would shrug his shoulders. During shoe typing practice, he would pretend to fall asleep complete with snoring.
ReplyDeleteTammy gave me a Christmas present one year of his artwork made into note cards. I have never, ever used one to send to another person. How could I give his artwork away; I still have them all in my drawer.
And then he became my neighbor! I told him that one day during the summer I wanted him to come play in my therapy room for fun. I am sad that I should have had my dear friend over sooner.
Catherine Whiting
I loved the stories of Kyle in the summer backyard on Rose. Who will tell about the movies, games and concerts?
ReplyDeleteI don't know where to start with Kyle. To me he touched a place in my heart, and he can never actually leave me, because his actual self is engraved in my minds so I can never forget him. I wasn't terribly close to him, but he made me laugh, but also made me cry. Which is enough to make me remember him. Blogs- to me -seem seem comforting in a way. People closer to him, such as family, can see that we really did care for Kyle, and that me and others miss him a LOT. I wish I could write more about Kyle, because he had so much things he liked. Maybe I can write more. Okay, I will. I loved that he liked Scooby-Doo. The Mystery Machine is one of the coolest cars I've laid eyes on. It was fun pretending with Georgia Seltzer that we were in a band, and we would play instruments such as guitar, microphone, and drums. In third grade, Kyle and I were in Mr. Crawford's class. One day in PE, Kyle grabbed my arm and wouldn't let go. When I got free,the part he grabbed was barely red, and I skipped the rest of PE and ran to the class room. I'm not quite sure why I felt scared, because now I learn Kyle is one of the nicest guys I know. I miss him so much, and I always will.
ReplyDeleteKyle was such a great guy. I loved watching him on the monkey bars. Larissa and i taught him how to do 1 bar with one hand, to make it easier to get to the next. To help him, we would always shout,"Hand in the pocket, 2nd bar jump." It was so much. Kyle always put a smile on my face. In the morning, he would do something to make everyone happy. it didn't matter what mood they were in. He would make it nice to go to school. He made everyone laugh! One time i saw Kyle picking up leaves and twigs. I asked him what he was doing. He was making a raccoon fort. In 201, we couldn't really go in. One day, Mrs .Stricker said to me and Larissa," Can you sneek into 201, Kyle wants you to see his raccoon fort." When we saw it, we were amazed by his work. It was so cute. In the mornings, Larissa and i would have kyle read his journal to us, and he would read, sometimes he had a little trouble, but barely. Kyle would always use a tennis racket as a guitar and play Horse Cowboy by Big and Rich. Whenever kyle heard music, he would bob his head and sometimes dance. It was so fun just to watch him. I would rather play with Kyle at recess than almost anyone else. I loved being with him, and making him happy. He didn't just make me happy,he made everyone happy!!! I miss you Kyle! I will never forget you!
ReplyDeleteMy relationship with Kyle was more toward the beginning of his life. Tammy and I worked closely together at an ad agency (I witnessed first hand Tammy and Doug's courtship). Some of us catered their wedding reception and 9 months later Tammy and I delivered our first born babies -- 3 weeks apart. We joined the "mother share" group on Bainbridge and encouraged each other to attend weekly -- even in those first dark winter months when few people came. For the next three years we walked our babies, met at the park and threw our "mom's drink and drive" marguerita parties together:)! Since we moved off the island in 2000 our families see less and less of each other -- but my first impressions of Kyle will stay with me forever. Tad and I first laid eyes on him the night he came home from the hospital. He was absolutely beautiful, teeny tiny and had a nice full head of jet black hair. The four of us sat in their livingroom on Logg Road and visited while Kyle slept. The lights were dim, we whispered so we wouldn't wake him up and it was pin-drop peaceful. Kyle was the perfect baby! He never cried, was very happy (unless someone wasn't sharing), and was the center of his parents universe (until Mitch came along, of course). This is simply devastating news and our hearts and prayers are with you three.
ReplyDeleteKyle was the best person to sit with because he was always happy and i loved hearing about his weekend stories, anyways he had very fun when we went to the play it looked like.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite memories of Kyle was when we were on the ferry on the way back from our field trip to the Children's Theatre it was really windy. So, a bunch of us went out on the deck and we were almost blown off it was so windy. It was almost time to get off the ferry boat so we had to get on the bus. I remember that Kyle didn't want to go inside so Ms.Stricker up on the deck trying to get him off the deck and onto the bus for about five more minutes. Also we all thought it was really funny when Kyle got a tennis racket and played as a guitar and used the jump rope for a microphone. I had a great time with Kyle at the Sakai pizza party that he intited me to also. He was always so funny and nice to be with. Although I only met him this year he was definitly a big memory in my life. I also remember that he loved the song he called 'Horse Cowboy'. He always sang it in class when we were talking about music. Another memory I had was when we were in Science and Kyle was standing by the window. All of the sudden we hear Kyle yell "Racoon!" We all looked over and Kyle was wide eyed standing by the window and pointing outside. We all went to look and there was nothing there. It was really funny. I remember that one day Mitch had a basketball game on the same day as my sister. So, I saw Kyle and he was trying to open the door to his car. I didn't know that the car belonged to the Melby family so I was a bit worried about him trying to open the car door. When it was time for him to leave I realized the car was actually their car and I understood. I knew how much he loved Scooby Doo. There is so much more to write but I just can't write it all there is so much. Kyle was a loving, caring and funny friend. I am so glad I got to know him.
ReplyDelete-Jordan Maria
I already wrote some, but i still have so many stories. One time, Kyle was drawing while we were in a movie in Mrs. deGuzman's room. i was sitting right next to him. He started to write Kyle Kyle Kyle like 1,000 times, not actually. Then i told him to write some other names. I spelled them out for him. After that, sometimes i saw him writing our names, he remembered them.It was amazing!! I met Kyle this year, but it feels like it has been my whole life! Kyle will make any moment funnier or just better. On Mondays when we would talk about our weekends, he would be so excited to tell his. Sometimes it was even a Mariners game. This year, probably has been the best year, but it was because of him. It didnt really matter if Kyle's brain didn't work the same as ours, it made him better.5th grade would suck without him!! I am so glad that i got to be in his life. One time we were reading his journal and it said that Kyle wanted to have a sleepover with Jordan. It was so cute. When i think about Kyle there is only good thoughts.(only!)Sometimes Kyle would be loud, but he would usually follow directions. At one point, Larissa and i sat with Kyle. It was such an honor! Igot to sit next to the popular kid that was my friend. Kyle was popular over school. If people heard that Kyle had the scooby doo van, they would be like, " that was him!" If someone said that i had an R-class no one would know what that car was. People knew Kyle. Kyle was a fun, funny, caring,loving,outrageous guy. He had the best adittude. Kyle was so special. He wasa a joy to be around. I miss Kyle. He was and always will be one of my best friends!
ReplyDeleteI barely knew Kyle. All that i ever really knew about him was whatever my sister told me. And she told me a lot. I would see him every morning when we dropped Georgia off at school, and i know that he is still there in spirit. Eventhough i mostly saw him from the car door window, I knew exactly who he was, how he acted, and how amazing of a person he was and always will be. Anyone that can make my sister that happy is a piece if magic. And magic he truly was. It takes someone special to bring joy to everyone that they see. He was a gift that could NEVER be returned.
ReplyDeleteDear Tammy,
ReplyDeleteI just learned about you, and about Kyle's passing, from our mutual friend, Nan Lofas. I am so, so sorry that this has happened. My heart goes out to you. There are no words adequate to this situation, but I am sending loving thoughts to you and your family. May your hearts be comforted, each step of the journey.
Karen Gerstenberger (Katie's and David's mom)
www.karengberger.blogspot.com
In early 1997, our then-newborn, Johan, and Kyle were Mothershare buddies, and Tammy and I (and a handful of other new mothers including Jane Lewis and Andrea Adams) were comrades in the joy and despair that come with having your first child. I remember what a sweet baby Kyle was - patient and undemanding (which was especially evident as Johan spent most of his early months fussing or crying :)! Those were much-needed gatherings for me, as were the times spent on walks, playdates at the parks, play groups at the Parent and Child Center, mom-only get togethers.
ReplyDeleteI have a great memory of Johan playing with Kyle when they were maybe two or three at the Melby-Fujihara abode and, when I arrived to pick up Johan, he and Kyle were zooming around together having a ball (someone was covered in paint - Kyle? Johan?) I remember Johan wailing with disappointment when we I told him it was time to leave.
In 2000, when we left Bainbridge and moved to Portland, Tammy and I continued to correspond and, when in 2002, Johan was diagnosed with brain cancer, we continued to receive her emails of support and encouragement.
One last thought: when our dog, Emma, recently died, the last thing I whispered in her ear before she took her last breath was that she needed to find Katie Gerstenberger, a 12-year-old who died of cancer 18 months ago. I sent Emma to Katie. A month ago a boy in our son Finn's class, died, and I prayed to both Emma and Katie to find him. This morning, I sent a prayer to Emma, Katie and Jarred to find Kyle. I take great comfort and peace in the thought that these precious beings are all together, free of pain and disease, and running free.
Much love to you all - Tammy, Doug, Mitchell and Kyle,
Nan, Lars, Johan, Finn and Ava xxoo
I have had the pleasure of watching Kyle in his early years. I think he, was just 8 months he, was a really sweetie pie. I really adore him. I enjoyed tremendously his company he, was very fun, sweet, charming, very good boy he, never give me any trouble. He fulfill my hearth with worth and love. He was a very specially boy, he always call me "La la" he, couldn't say Lolis.
ReplyDeleteI got married and move out of the Island but, he, was at my wedding and I was very pleased that I got to visit last year and he, got to meet my son, they had a lot of fun. Kyle was great with my son even do he is a toddler.
There is one more star in the sky.
I love you Kyle...
Lolis Villareal de Dowell
A Couple Kyle Memories
ReplyDeleteHide-and-Go-Seek with a Twist…
It’s always a blast coming over to the Melby's for dinner, but I do seem to remember one night in particular when we were playing hide-and-go-seek with this scary mask. I have never laughed so hard.
It must have been Doug’s idea, the evil genius.
Tam hid in the closet with the mask while the boys went looking for her. I remember Kyle, completely fearless leading the way. When we got outside the door, Tam jumped out, freaked Mitch and I out, and I just remember Kyle laughing so hard and wanting to do it again and again.
Korby Lenker at the Melby’s…
How much fun was that show! Mitch had set up a very lucrative lemonade stand in front of the main entrance to the backyard (born entrepreneur), Tam was wearing her Korby shirt (what a groupie), and by the second song Kyle had become the fourth member of the group.
He had run upstairs, grabbed his bongo drums and mid-song joined the group without missing a beat. He was up on stage, playing his drums and passing head nods to Korby. The type of looks you would see George Harrison give to John Lennon during their first US Tour.
Born rock star at age 11!
Doug, Please retell the story of when Kyle called 911 on you..."Bad Daddy" It was the hardest I had ever laughed. Thanks
ReplyDeleteDan
I was just getting to know Kyle. He liked naan. Kyle always wore a smile and waved sweetly to me when we saw each other. He loved his family and was most vocal about his support of Mitch! What a champ Mitch is! What a great big brother Kyle is! Melby's - Keep laughing, playing and singing and we will remember. Doug - can't wait to hear about the 911 call. Thanks for sharing your Kyle with us.
ReplyDeleteJami said... I will always have the best memories of my nephew kyle. He brought joy and happiness and especially love to my life. I think the best memory I have is when kyle and mitch slept over night and there was kyle with all the cat toys and he was throwing them under my bed trying to get my cat(baby)out but it never happen. The other time was when he help me wash my car. Kyle was smiling and laughing and having so much fun getting me wet! But I didn't mind because he was having a ball. The other times are when he was in my car just rocking out to the music. Everytime I listen to music my mind wanders to you kyle. I miss you so very much and you will always be in my heart because you are my melody you are my song! your aunt Jami will always love you.
ReplyDeleteKyle lit up whenever he saw Louis, our Golden Retriever, at Cubs games last spring. He got lots of good petting time during those games, and at our house when Tammy dropped off Mitch for playdates with Joe. Joe said that at their house, Kyle loved to watch him and Mitch play hours of Guitar Hero (which has become a hit in our house, too, because of that) and that he chased the boys and was always a lot of fun to be around. Very sweet kid, and we will always remember him fondly.
ReplyDeleteTammy, I just heard. I am so sorry. Kyle sounds so wonderful. My heart goes out to you all.
ReplyDeleteSkip
Love, laughter, passion, family and friends are some of the ingredients of a "wonderful life." Kyle was blessed that way.
ReplyDeleteIt is a good thing to see children that are safe and healthy. It is a wonderful thing to see children busting their gut with laughter. A wonderful thing to see them fascinated about ferry boats, planes and other things. A great thing to see them groove to a certain song or just go crazy about liking something. Certainly a great thing to be a part of their excitement.
Kyle shared a lot of his excitement with friends and family...
Even though I had only seen Kyle a couple of times I felt like I knew him. Donna & Roger Melby shared so much of Kyle's life with their friends. They are so full of love for him, and so proud of his accomplishments. His world was filled with love and wonderful experiences, and I hope you can take some comfort in that. We are so sad that you have lost this very special boy.
ReplyDeleteLuke
ReplyDeletekyle you rock.you were my best friend in the class. i will miss you for ever and i will never forget you.
from lars erickson and jeremy knight
ReplyDeletei have known kyle for 7 seven years lars just met him we both miss him very much we thought that kyle was the happiest funnyest coolest and just great to be around guy in our class
we think every one thought he was invicible we remember him as a happy strong willed individual thats how we will always remember him
My Kylie boy my Sweetie Pie,thinking of you I remember back to the night you were born,when they put you in the incubater I stoked your little arm and immediately bonded with you.
ReplyDeleteI remember when you were about 1 1/2 yrs old and came to see me in the hospital after my operation and I asked you to wink at me and you did - what joy !
You were about the same age when we visited your school at the U of W and you were playing in the playroom and we watched you through the window and you saw us and broke out in the wonderful KYLE SMILE.Everytime I picked you up at school you always greeted me with that same smile.When we visited you in Children's when you had had 2 strokes you were sitting there in bed and when you saw us - the KYLE SMILE. You would play your keyboard at our house from about 1 year old and would dance and kick your feet up behind you and just grin.
When we asked what you wanted for dinner it was pizza with a little side grin like we should know without asking.
Papa used to always bring a loaf of his homemade bread which you loved,until we found you were allergic to gluten.
You played for hours with your cars and trucks or colored in your books or wrote in notebooks,using one page for each word.
I miss you more that I can say and my heart is broken.
Your grama Donna will love you forever
from Emi Ireland
ReplyDeleteAlthough Phil (Tammy's cousin) and I live far away from Bainbridge, on the east coast, we feel as if we watched Kyle grow up through all the wonderful photos and notes we got from Tammy and Doug over the years. Kyle's personality came through loud and clear in each holiday photo -- a sweet kid with a glint of mischief in his eye. Phil also got to see Kyle on his visits to Seattle, and like everyone else, he remembers Kyle as a sunny, lively boy with a wonderful sense of humor.
We are very sad at your loss. Our hearts go out especially to Mitch, who must miss his big brother so much. Phil and I found some links to honor Kyle:
King of All the World, by the Old 97s
Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy, by Big and Rich
Kyle helped me make a beautiful and wonderful necklace that I will treasure forever and wear it close to my heart. Tammy helped me too. Thank you both so much.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was in first grade I would like to run with my arms behind me like I was flying. I was coming out of the library at Ordway and I started to run/fly. Kyle saw me coming and he thought I was running to hug him. I didn't see Kyle so I bumped into him, and he gave me the biggest hug a kid ever gave me. I liked the hug. At the time I didn't even know Kyle much less the Melby family!!! Now I know the Melby family a lot better. I had many fun times playing with Kyle and Mitch. Now Mitch is one of my best friends.
ReplyDeleteEmily and Kyle were together in the same group during preschool at Ordway. We remember his big smile as they all walked together holding hands. Kyle was a charmer. One day we went over for a play date and it was great fun. See in preschool kids with special needs do way more than regular kids and I found myself as a mom focusing on therapy way too much. After that day I saw things different -- enjoy our kids for who they are.
ReplyDeleteWhenever I saw Kyle, I was always amazed at his excitement. He didn't just walk-he bounced. It was as if he could hardly contain the energy inside him. He seemed to light up the space around him. He noticed little things that other people might overlook-an animal trail near his house, or a juicy pear waiting to be picked.
ReplyDeleteWhen my daughter Ellie was a tiny infant, he always had a bright smile for her. He was mesmerized, and would stand very still and look at her, touch her, and smile. He was so tender, so gentle. I remember watching him and thinking that he was an old soul--he had a deep love and understanding of life, and of tiny creatures. I take great comfort in knowing that Kyle-- so buoyant, so full of light--is shining on.
kyle was posibly the happyest person i ever knew, im in mr emricks class i was alot of kyle classes and he allways had that KYLE SMILE on were ever he was, he was always rocking out with his imaginary guitar ortalking about racoons or just smiling at every one. i miss kyle and will be at his sevice
ReplyDeleteKyle loved to swing, jump and laugh on the Sakai playground. In the classroom he would look at books and draw. In his spare time he liked to play rounders. I will never forget him.
ReplyDeleteEmi, Matt, Devin and I were deeply saddened to hear about Kyle's untimely passing, and I will be representing them at the service for Kyle on April 19th.
ReplyDeleteTam and Doug's annual family holiday cards brought the world enjoyed by Kyle and Mitchell into our home each year, and I did have a chance to meet the boys on the occasions when I did get to Seattle. Living on the east coast, however, I didn't have a chance to know Kyle and Mitchell as well as I would have liked.
I was so inspired after reading the entries on this blog that I wrote a poem to celebrate Kyle's life. Thanks to all for sharing your memories of this dear boy. Love to Tam, Doug and Mitch.
===================
King o Word
Who is the King of the World?
For those who loved Kyle Melby,
There will always be only one
King o Word.
Kyle never met a stranger.
Despite only twelve turns
Round the dharma wheel,
This musical boy with a
Loudly singing soul
Threw his arms around each of us
In bracing bear hugs of joy.
Mention his favorite song,
"Save a horse, ride a cowboy,"
And Kyle would be off,
Galloping around the room
Playing his air drums.
Walking into his house was
An invitation to share the excitement.
Jumping, scurrying, madcap prancing
With Ellie and Golie and brother Mitch
As barks and yelps and peals of laughter
Cascaded down on all
Within earshot.
Eating dinner was an adventure
When guests were visiting.
Come look at the raccoons!
High five!
Do you like Scooby Doo?
Come watch!
On the middle school track
Kyle was never too busy to
Watch ants spilling out of a cracked curb,
Or run as fast as he could
When the bigger kids sprinted by.
From far away at the finish line,
They saw him and cheered him on.
The house is quiet now.
The King o Word is gone.
But listen carefully.
Listen.
The King o Word is there
When a playful breeze and an unexpected
Glint of sunshine
Bring smiles to workday ferry boat riders.
The King o Word is there
When a gaggle of tots tear open
A fragrant box of pepperoni pizza.
The King o Word is there
When a concert crowd is swaying and tapping
And one boy leaps to his feet
In a burst of joy
To play his air guitar in the aisle.
Dear Tammy, Doug and Mitch -
ReplyDeleteI will never forget meeting you when we first moved to the island, 10 years ago, when Kyle was still pretty much a baby. You welcomed us, and were so kind to us. When we would come to visit, Kyle would be the chief greeter, and it remained that way when we saw him out and about on Bainbridge - and especially on the ferry, which I know he loved. Nick and Caitie saw him just a few weeks ago on their way to a field trip. Somehow or other over the years, they had established their own friendships; the said then that they "always see Kyle, mum, all over the place".
From my perspective, Kyle never struggled with life because you didn't let him struggle. You are an enormously strong, loving, and fun family and there was no room for anything other than facing the world every day. Kyle was a reflection of you in every way. And yes, I know, too, that he, like all kids, came with his own special personality and enthusiasms.
At the end of the day, I know you miss you so much. And I am just sad - for him, for you, and for everyone who has to experience what is ultimately the unfair loss of Kyle.
A couple of years ago, I was at Sawatdy waiting for some take out. In comes Doug with the two boys in tow. For the next fifteen minutes, all Doug did was talk to me with his back turned as he tried his best to wrangle them as dove under tables, crawled into booths and generally did everything they could to evade capture, with Kyle far and away the most difficult to catch and enjoy it the most. Anyone could tell they were driving him crazy but he loved them both. He said to me, "If this doesn't convince you to not have kids nothing will." I actually thought at the time the exact opposite. My hear is with you all.
ReplyDeleteWe were neighbors on Rose Avenue and Kyle would sneak over to our house to see what was going on. I loved my music loud and would play it that way but could always hear Kyle's soft little knocks on our front door. "Hi Jose!" "Hi Kyle!" "What you doing, Jose?" "Just listening to music. Want to come in?" "Ok!" We'd hang for a bit then it was time to go home. I'd walk hand in hand with him to his front door and Doug or Tammy would greet us with a shake of the head, "Kyle!" and he'd say goodbye and scamper away. This would go on for a while. It was always very sweet, the little knocks on the door. One afternoon, snow on the ground, music is blaring away and there's a soft knock on the door. It's Kyle but this time Kyle is naked. "Hi Jose!" "Hi Kyle! You don't have any clothes!" I bring him inside, grab a blanket and proceed to carry him to his house. Kyle was a chunk and it was not easy carrying him to the front door, but we made it talking about this or that. We get to the door, I knock, and Doug answers "An escapee!" I unwrap Kyle and Doug exclaims "A naked escapee!" Kyle giggles, says goodbye and is gone. I will never forget the little naked escapee, and all the magical moments, however few, that we got to spend with that young man. Thank you Doug, Tammy, and Mitch, for sharing your family with us. Kyle will be missed so much. He will always be a part of our family in our heart and in our thoughts. Goodbye sweet young King of the world. Jose, Elizabeth, and Evann
ReplyDeleteBeing Kyle’s Aunty Debby was such a special honor. I always looked forward to his trips to Kennewick to visit. I loved our times we spent reading books and drawing together. From such a young age, Kyle enjoyed books. I remember sitting with him in Grandma’s playroom reading book, after book, after book. As a first grade teacher, it was such a joy when Kyle was able to read to me. He was very proud of himself and really wanted to show me what he could do. In his twelve short years, he had so many amazing accomplishments and this was one of them.
ReplyDeleteOne of my first toddler memories of Kyle was the day he pulled out his “big, knob, shape puzzle” and showed me how he could put it back together shape by shape. I remember clapping and clapping for him and seeing his “smile” that lit up his face. He then proceeded to dump his puzzle over. The next thing that happened was precious. He fit the triangle puzzle piece into the circle spot in the puzzle! Without using any words, he showed me that ‘there was more than one way to do the puzzle.’ He surprised me and clapped for himself!
Looking back and remembering this story, made me realize that Kyle lived his life this way. He showed us that ‘there is more than one way to live a life.’ He enjoyed life to the fullest and was able to do the things he wanted to do. He worked hard, never gave up on anything or anyone, and had such a BIG heart. Doug and Tam gave him the freedom to find his BIG heart by loving him and allowing him to explore and grow. They gave him the CONFIDENCE to be the little man that we will never forget.
Kyle, even though you always wiped away my kisses. I know that you loved them. I will cherish the wonderful times we spent together.
Love, Aunty Debby
Kyle was an awesome guy. I am a 5th grader at Sakai, and i also just met him this year. Though i wasnt in any of his classes, it felt like i knew Kyle since, since preschool. There was an email going around, and everyone signed it, even if they didn't know him, but still cared about him. here are some words about Kyle that i wrote in the email.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Paulina Bredy, and Kyle is like a friend, more than a friend, a buddy to everyone. He is super friendly, and is a big fan of Scooby-Doo. I miss Kyle, and after you read this, so will you.
Kyle might not be here on the ground were we stand, but he is still in our hearts. There will always be a place for him in my heart.
when i heard about his death, i started to cry inside, but i didn't have any tears streak down. I just wanna say some words for him.
Kyle Melby was a great kid, not because he got walked around with an adult as if it was like a body guard, but because he had friends, and friends that actually cared for him, and wanted to be his friend.And also, for being himself, and not trying to be popular, like the rest of us.(im not saying that ur trying to be popular, thats not what i mean). People like him, should be proud that they have downsindroum, and they shouldn't be hiding in a shell. The should show themselves, like Kyle, and be happy for their gift, that god gave them.
thats all i want to say, but make sure that Kyle is up in heaven, looking down at us, and is knowing that there was a reason, that he is up there. There was something that god needed, and that was him.
Please sign this even if you don't know Kyle, but if you sign this, Kyle will know you.
I spent many years watching Kyle grow up while he attended Ordway elementary. Kyle was a one of a kind kiddo who had tons of friends on campus and I’ll always be able to visualize him with some of his good buds like Axel, Scotty, Matthew and Alastair. Kyle was such a good and caring friend. I had the good fortune of also seeing Kyle regularly at the Top Soccer program. He was a faithful player and arrived full on ready to play in his jersey, shin guards and cleats. When Kyle had his mind set on scoring a goal he would get the job done whether it meant picking up the ball and delivering it into the goal and placing his whole body there as well. Such celebration when a goal was scored! Both of my sons were volunteers at Top Soccer and after each practice we loved to talk about the kids and what they did. We would always start with a “Kyle Report” because my kids loved to work with Kyle at TOPS. Probably my last memory of Kyle was one afternoon this fall when Tammy was on campus with Kyle while they were waiting for Mitch to finish chess club. Kyle came in to the therapy room to swing. He loved to swing and I remember thinking how grown up he had become since leaving Ordway. But I was so happy that he had still found his way into my room to enjoy the swing. Such a cool kid and one that will be deeply missed by so many.
ReplyDeleteWell me and Kyle (adrian groves)Me and Grayson WIldsmith and Caleb Narte would come in and help Kyle Matthew Axel and Scott as well as many other kids. His avorite thing to do was swing on the swings. Matthew liked the computers as well as on the swing. But Kyle would have the best of times on the swing and it seemed if as he was having the most fun in his life. It just warmed my heart
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful testament today was to Kyle's life and the love that so many people have for him.
ReplyDeleteThe following is a poem that I connected with during a time of loss. The final paragraph rings so true.
Ailey, Baldwin, Floyd, Killens, and Mayfield
By Maya Angelou
When great trees fall,
rocks on distant hills shudder,
lions hunker down
in tall grasses,
and even elephants
lumber after safety.
When great trees fall
in forests,
small things recoil into silence,
their senses
eroded beyond fear.
When great souls die,
the air around us becomes
light, rare, sterile.
We breathe, briefly.
Our eyes, briefly,
see with
a hurtful clarity.
Our memory, suddenly sharpened,
examines,
gnaws on kind words
unsaid,
promised walks
never taken.
Great souls die and
our reality, bound to
them, takes leave of us.
Our souls,
dependent upon their
nurture,
now shrink, wizened.
Our minds, formed
and informed by their
radiance,
fall away.
We are not so much maddened
as reduced to the unutterable ignorance
of dark, cold
caves.
And when great souls die,
after a period peace blooms,
slowly and always
irregularly. Spaces fill
with a kind of
soothing electric vibration.
Our senses, restored, never
to be the same, whisper to us.
They existed. They existed.
We can be. Be and be
better. For they existed.
I was not lucky enough to know Kyle personally, but my son Reed, who played in Sakai’s marimba band with him, describes Kyle as “awesome.” Judging from the number of people at today’s beautiful memorial service, and the many wonderful tributes his friends and family made, he must have indeed been a very special – and definitely awesome – young man. The only times when my path crossed with Kyle’s were on a few different occasions when I arrived early to the Sakai parking lot to pick up Reed for an after-school appointment. From my parked car, I noticed Kyle leaving the school building on his way to his bus. Since he left a few minutes before the final bell rang, he was usually the only student traveling between the building and the parking lot. I quickly realized why he was ahead of the crowd: each time I watched him travel that same short journey, it took him several minutes because of the various adventures he took along the way. He stopped to admire the flowers in the planter. He veered off-track to wave to someone he knew in a parked car. He sometimes began heading toward a completely different bus in order to deliver a hug to another driver. Invariably, a teacher or trusted adult gently guided him toward his destination but it always took some time to get him there. From where I sat, I could tell that Kyle was full of life and love and he appeared eager to share those gifts with the world around him. Thank you to you, his family, for sharing him with us. Best wishes to you all. -Mary Thomas
ReplyDeleteMarni said….
ReplyDeleteI had the privilege of being a nanny for Kyle and Mitch for a period of time.
One day I observed how truly opportunistic Kyle was on one particular occasion. Kyle, Mitch, and I ventured to Seattle to visit the Science Center. Mitch was immediately interested in the displays and activities at the Center. Kyle looked around, but wasn’t quite captured by what was going on. I could see his eyes scanning the room for fun, and I could tell he was about to be up to something. We were all holding hands to stay together in the crowd. We stopped so Mitch could pick up some rocks with a toy bulldozer. Kyle was behind me one second, and gone when I looked back again. I felt my stomach drop to the floor with my worst fears. Mitch and I looked frantically for him, alerted all security to shut down all exits, and send out a message on the intercom. For what seemed like eternity, Mitch and I searched every nook and cranny of where we thought he would be, and still no sign. He was fast when he wanted to be. We walked to the lower level, and I heard the beautiful sound of the piano playing. There was Kyle, playing a grand piano with a huge grin on his face. He batted his eyes at us. There was a small crowd around him listening. I was going to march over to him and let him know how he was in big trouble, but he looked up at me with that angelic face, and my heart melted. I knew in that moment how intensely I love Kyle. I just couldn't be mad at him. He was simply an opportunist.
As I got to know Kyle, I learned that he loved to laugh as much as I do. When I was around him, that is all I wanted to make him do. I would do anything that would make him giggle and scream. I was willing to put the raccoon hat on with the tail in the back, and chase him around with a pillow. Pretty soon he would be throwing his dirty socks at me, as would Mitch. He would begin laughing so hard that we had to stop playing, then I would start laughing, and then we both couldn’t stop. I can say every time I got to spend time with Kyle, I went to a special place where I felt so delighted. It is rare for me to meet a person which can make me feel so full of life. Kyle is extraordinary. That is why.
Tammy,Doug & Mitch,
ReplyDeleteYou amaze me. I did not know Kyle, and I wish I did. The service yesterday was beautiful, and we were so moved by all the stories and pictures that were shared. Kyle was certainly blessed to have you as parents and Mitch as a brother. I hope you are finding comfort in knowing that you gave him the best life possible. He lived fully and happily because of you, and I can see that Kyle's spirit of life will live on through all the wonderful people he touched.
With many thoughts and prayers,
Sara & Ian Havill
Kiera & Kendall
one raccoon morning
ReplyDeletescooby doo van drives along
music fills the air
Anyway, I'm Kyle's Uncle Steve (Tammy is my baby sister). Kyle was very perceptive regarding my general personality and demeanor. I liked to tease him and then he usually responded by saying "time out, Uncle Steve" and that's exactly what I needed. I miss him dearly.
ReplyDeleteI am awed by your love and courage. Although our paths rarely crossed I am yet one more soul profoundly moved by little Kyle's all too short but oh so joyful life so beautifully remembered last Sunday.
ReplyDeleteI'm a 6th grader at Sakai, and will miss Kylie very much. He always made me smile, whether he was smiling to himself in the cafeteria as he drank a carton of milk, playing Kyle vs. Kyle Othello in the game room, or swinging on the monkey bars with Matthew. Seeing Kyle could brighten up any day, he was never without a grin or a laugh. Kyle did the littlest things, and without knowing it, he could put a smile on our faces and cheer us up.
ReplyDeleteKyle will never stop brightening people's days. I will miss him, and will always remember him.
-Emilia
I was in Kyle's music class at sakai. I will miss his hi-five's. ):
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful celebration of Kyle on Sunday. It really captured what an amazing young man he was. He was so encouraged by Doug, Tammy, and Mitch to be the amazing guy he was.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to acknowledge Mitch for being the greatest brother Kyle could have had; and the same goes with Kyle. I have so many memories of how sweet they were together, whether it was Kyle having Mitch in a headlock, or Kyle tackling Mitch with a big hug and a kiss; there was just so much love.
I also remember how when Kyle knew his dad was about to come home, he got very focused on staying up past his bedtime. I could not get him to go to bed. When Doug got home, he would push me aside, and tried to push me out the door; "time for you to go home now", he would say very sternly. Noone else existed in the room when he got sight of Doug. That was really neat to watch.
Sunday's celebration was a beautiful mix of tears and laughter - just like life. I was strongly moved by the emotional and heartfelt stories, poems and memories of Kyle. How very precious and uplifting it was to hear so many children profess their love and admiration for their friend Kyle. It had to take a bit of courage for such young people to speak to a crowd, but obviously Kyle's meaning to them gave them that courage. After all the gifts I have read that Kyle bestowed on others simply by being himself, here is proof that his gifts live on in that he inspired so many children to stand up and speak out about love.
ReplyDeleteHow proud you must be. What a special life. What a special family.
Our thoughts continue to be with you.
Whitney and Kevin
sharpie artistry
ReplyDeletea ruler for good measure
king of all the world
As I stated at the memorial, Kyle touched my soul deeply. He taught me about the human spirit; he taught me how far a smile can go and how his smile reached all corners of my heart; he taught me how to be a better teacher; he taught me to step back, enjoy life and it will be Kyle's spirit crossing my yard every time I see a raccoon. That brings me a lot of peace.
ReplyDeleteTammy, Doug and Mitch...what I learned from Sunday was what a rich life Kyle had and how much love and fun you have with each other. I hope our paths cross again soon!
Linda
Dear Doug, Tammy and Mitch,
ReplyDeleteThe Celebration for Kyle's life was such an inspiration! You are an amazing family and I feel so lucky to know you. I have included the stories and thoughts that I shared at the celebration last week. Thank you for all that you have taught me over the years.
Love to you all!
Over the past few weeks I have been sharing and listening to Kyle stories with some of the many people that were touched by Kyle's life and over and over again similar themes would come up so I would like to share a few of these tales.
PLAY and JOY
One of the earlier Kyle stories was told by a friend from preschool who shared that when he was learning to speak he was also learning to use sign language and he would often wave his hand back and forth in a shape that looked like the letter “Y”. His teachers thought he was saying yellow but his little buddy knew better. She knew that he was asking to play. It is just like Kyle to have had one of his earliest and most used words to be play because that is what he loved to do most! He would find ways to turn just about any situation into play.
I worked with Kyle as his physical therapist in the school district but I'm not sure who was doing the teaching in our relationship and if work was really what was happening. From the beginning Kyle would not let me touch him because he knew I was trying to get him to do things a certain way and he had his own plan. Needless to say he taught me about humility because none of my tricks worked. Kyle inspired me to find other ways to help him and fun was the ticket. Soon his therapy became something that looked a lot more like recess with his buddies and he was one happy camper. Ultimately this new approach to therapy, creating ways to play with friends making connecting and fun the goal inspired my work as a physical therapist. He reminded me that first and foremost life should be joyful and there is more than one way to do things! I can see now that Kyle's family had a huge part in his zest for life. They appreciated Kyle for who he was and enjoyed his immeasurable gifts, their unconditional love and acceptance allowed him bloom into his true self, living his life to his potential.
MUSIC AND PASSION
Years later when kyle was "training" for the Seattle kids marathon, he was on the high school field and track everyday, rain or shine. We,the adults often complained about the the rain, the cold or even the heat or how hard it was going to be. Kyle just charged out the door, up to the field happy to be outside, enjoying his day. The adults focused on the objective but Kyle focused on enjoying the moment and the new people he would meet, greet and befriend on every turn of the track. He would trudge around the track with fierce determination, not to finish his lap,but to catch up to the next group of walkers or runners, say hello, get a high five and walk with them a bit. One day as he was being coerced up the hill to the track he heard in the distance the beat of drums. Kyle's sped up and he started to smile that contagious Kyle smile. Soon he was cruising the track while playing his air drums to the rhythm of the band. His huge smile and passionate drumming would get the attention of the kids in the band and on many occasions Kyle would finish his walk by playing drums for the high school band. In those moments Kyle was in heaven but it was hard to tell who was enjoying it more Kyle or the kids watching him bursting with joy.
When race day came, kyle of course saw this as a great adventure and Kyle was on the starting line with all of his school friends and hundreds of new friends. The last leg of the kids marathon was a mile but Kyle ran about 4 miles that morning for he stopped to greet every policeman,fireman and medic he saw. We thought the objective was to finish the race. Kyle new that the objective, the real objective was to connect with other people. Granted, we were the last ones in the stadium that day to cross the finish line...but kyle and his buddies were followed by 7 or 8 police cars,aid cars and fire trucks,each holding 2 of kyle's new friends...calling his name and cheering him on to the finish. Kyle understood something that many of us miss. He knew that when we rush along from one moment to the next..getting ready for the next "important thing" we miss out experiencing the real moment to share and enjoy which is the opportunity to create connection. Kyle took the time to deeply connect with life. Whether it was celebrating the wonder of nature or connecting to people Kyle recognized that connection is a precious thing.
CONNECTION AND LISTENING: Kyle had an uncanny ability to listen and sometimes he could hear things that weren't even said. He could tell if you really wanted to listen and if you were sincere. Anyone that spent much time around Kyle probably new his growly voice. One day when he was playing with his TOPSoccer team the teenage buddy that was helping him asked us if Kyle could talk in a regular voice because he was mostly growling. We said that yes Kyle had a wonderful speaking voice and he should ask him to use it. This boy started asking Kyle questions with the intention of wanting to get to know him. Kyle responded in his beautiful angelic voice. He knew that this buddy wasn't asking him to not growl but instead he was asking about his life, he wanted to connect. When you took the time to really connect with Kyle and look into his twinkling eyes he would fill you up with his joyful loving heart.
Listening to Kyle stories and reflecting on the many ways he touched my life and the lives of so many people has been an inspiration during this time of incredible sadness. Today we are gathered to celebrate Kyle's life and the truly inspirational thing is that Kyle lived life as a celebration, a celebration of joy, passion and love. I'm so grateful that I had the opportunity to be a part of his amazing life. I hope to remember the lessons that he taught me, to each day play joyfully, live passionately and listen deeply.
Just stopping by to say "Hello" and to let you know that I'm thinking of you. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteRachel & I have this memory --
ReplyDeleteKyle was just a little guy--maybe quite two. He was visiting our house on Queen Anne, and he kept sneaking away from Tammy to try to climb our steps. Tammy would let him get a few steps up then chase him, get him back and put him back in the living room. He'd laugh and laugh, then sneak off to climb the steps again. Kyle seemed, even then, to be a great mix of sweetness and mischief. The world has a bit less sweetness and bit less mischief now. Love to Doug & Tammy--Ruth
I just wanted to say I think about Kyle all the time, and my heart is filled when I do. I also think about what an amazing guy he was. Amazing, Amazing. He taught me so much about enjoying life, laughter, and joy. He put many smiles on my face, so much spirit, and warmth in my heart.
ReplyDeleteI am thinking of you Tammy, Doug, and Mitch
I was on the ferry Mother's Day and couldn't help thinking about Kyle. He LOVED watching the cars drive on. He'd get on the boat and sit down outside when his body was centered over the car deck, and watch every last car. You couldn't get him to move if you tried, so I got to the point where I would just leave him there and keep an eye on him from inside. He would get all huffy when a car didn't make it on. He'd give a shout to the closest ferry worker in case they didn't realize they had left someone on shore.
ReplyDeleteIt was my first Mother's Day without Kyle and I was asked a couple times how many children I have. A tough question for a mom whose child has just died. I made it through the day remembering all the things I loved hearing Kyle say. "Love you mom". "Thank you dinner mom (sometimes dad, sometimes Ellie)". And my favorite daily harassment, "What's that smell? Eew gross mom...gas!"
Tam...I'm glad you are sharing these memories with us. I can just see Kyle yelling at the ferry dudes. I'm glad I got to see you today. It's hard to imagine how difficult Sunday must have been. Many times I wish I knew Kyle better than I did. I am still so very sorry for you, Doug and Mitch. Peace - Mich
ReplyDeleteJust reading over the new entries and sending love to Tam, Doug and Mitch. Emi and I were thinking of you, Tam, on Mother's Day. You have been and are a wonderful mom.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Phil
Hi Tammy, Doug and Mitch,
ReplyDeleteI log on often to read the new entries. I just love how much you let Kyle be Kyle. Just wanted to know that we were thinking of you.
Megan Belt and family
I'm thinking of you all as you move forward through these difficult times. When my mom died in 2004, someone told me, "Grief takes time to unfold," and I have found that to be true. I was so delighted by all the things I learned about Kyle at the memorial service, so grieved by your loss, and so glad to know that you are surrounded by such loving family and friends.
ReplyDeleteAlice
Hey Melbys...thinking of you, all of You.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear about Kyle's passing...
ReplyDeleteTeddy and Kyle went to preschool together at Ordway.
Teddy has fond memories of Kyle's cool Scooby Doo van! We loved seeing it go up and down Rose Avenue.
We will certainly keep your family in our thoughts and prayers...
Susan, Ken, Kenny & Teddy Dyer
Woodinville, WA
Emi and I are thinking of Doug today as Father's Day unfolds tomorrow. All of the same issues Tam had to deal with on Mother's Day will be there. Hang in there, Doug!
ReplyDeleteKyle could not have been the amazing person he was, with such a profound impact on so many, if he had not had two supportive and loving parents. And Mitchell also should be proud of his part in giving Kyle a life that was as fulfilling and fun as a short life can be.
It has been almost three months without Kyle, but it is clear from this blog that his memory is still very much alive.
As Doug's mother and as Tammy's mother-in-law and Mitch's grandmother I couldn't be more proud at what a wonderful life you three gave Kyle.Always there for him in any and every way.He is the light of all our lives and will always be.Thank you for sharing him with us.
ReplyDeleteI think about all the firsts for you all this summer...the befores and the afters. Thanks for taking Carson to spend time with your family. Hope that the memories and love continue to sustain you.
ReplyDeleteEvery event is a first without Kyle. I feel as though we are redefining our new "normal" as a family. A family of three. Mitch being an only child.
ReplyDeleteThe end of school was really emotional. I guess it was a number of things for me. Kyle's school dedicated the yearbook to him, which was so sweet of them, his not being among the kids to move on to 6th grade, and knowing he wouldn't be joining us on vacations.
How would we possibly make it through our annual Fujhara Cannon Beach trip? Just like anything, we did it. I was in the midst of a huge project and had to work most of the time we were there. Doug said it was a blessing for me, because it was hard not having a distraction like I did. Mitchell, being a kid, loves to do the stuff he's done before, which makes it painful but forces us to deal with our emotions whether we want to or not. Everyone missed him, but we managed to have fun. This year's new thing was go-carts.
The second trip was to use a gift card to The Great Wolf Lodge that the boys got for Christmas from Doug's family. Being left as an only child to do things by yourself, or with your parents, just isn't as much fun. So instead of having to pretend that we had the enthusiasm of a nine year old for water slides, we brought along Mitchell's buddy Carson. They had a wonderful time and Doug and I were thankful that it was over. Don't get me wrong, I was doing the water slides, just not as many as the kids. I did enough to make myself motion sick. As Mitch and I said to each other, Kyle would have loved squirting people with water as much as I did.
Then the last trip was to see our friends from Switzerland who were staying in Newport Beach CA. We had a great time, and as always, Kyle would have LOVED going to see Jeff, AJ, Maddie and Marya.
Everyone asks how Mitchell is doing. He misses his brother all the time, but is keeping himself busy, and talks about him quite a bit. He writes in a journal my sister gave him, where he writes down memories about Kyle, what he was good at, what he misses about him most. He always has a good sob when he works on that journal and can identify his emotions as being sad about Kyle. An obvious thing for a grown up, but for a long time he didn't know why he was crying. He is a stoic little kid, but will survive because there is no other choice.
Now it's time for school to start. Mitchell has a teacher we really don't know, but we hear is great. Another new chapter.
Talk to you guys soon. I love you all. Thank you.
Kyle;
ReplyDeleteI miss you so much. When I go to your house it is so hard because every where I look I see you. I love you Kylie. I wish I could see you one more time to hug you and tell you how much I love you.
Aunt Jane
Tammy talked about the things we did this sumer that would have been huge for Kyle. Going to Cannon Beach was so hard and so sad. I went for Mitch and Tammy, otherwise I don't think I could have faced it. Kyle made that trip with us 13 times and it was something he loved. We Melby boys had a couple traditions - going to breakfast and letting Tam sleep in and sneaking out early and going to the bakery in Cannon Beach another morning. I enjoyed both of those this year with Mitch, but we both missed Kyle.
ReplyDeleteSchool starts tomorrow and its another tough time. Those that knew Kyle at all know how much he loved school and this would have been his 10th first day. I was amazed at the joy Kyle got from attending Sakai last year. He was really becoming a "big kid" and he loved everything that came with that. Sadly, for us, part of that was wanting some independence. At the time, I thought it was great, but now I regret not spending more time with Kyle the past year.
I have had friends visit each of the last two weekends and that has been great and terrible. Its nice to see old buddies and forget about any troubles, but then they leave and the reality of Kyle's death comes back with a jolt. That and school starting tomorrow has me really depressed.
People have told us of the difficulty of dealing with all the "first time without Kyle" events in the first year and they have been right. Its really really sad and reminds me how big a part Kyle played in our lives. As long as Kyle has gone to school I have gotten him up in the morning, gone downstairs with him for "coffee & juice", spent time visiting as Tam and then Mitch would make their way down to join us and then fix breakfast and brush his teeth. Tam took care of dressing and lunches and put the boys on the bus. At night we would race upstairs at bedtime and do another tooth brushing and then I would chase Kyle to bed and try to pinch his rearend. He loved being chased (and chasing)and always went to bed with a smile and would always say "night Dad,coffee and juice" as I turned out the lights. That was Kyle's way of saying goodnight and I'll see you in the morning for coffee and juice. I miss that. I miss the call in the morning of "Dad, raccoons are here", too. Tam often mentions Kyle's announcement of ships passing by our house as if each one were the fist we had ever seen. "Mom, Dad, ships here"
We talk about Kyle often and I am glad we can do that. It makes us all smile and laugh when we remember silly things he did or said and he did a lot of each. Kyle loved making people, and himself, laugh. Its harder to talk about the pain and the hole in my life. I don't want to depress Mitch or Tam and I can't yet discuss the feelings without breaking down crying.
Anyway, I needed to say how much I miss my boy and to vent some of the pain.
I miss you terribly Kyle.
Dad
Melbys - You don't know it but you keep me going. Your courage and they way you are facing each day is a lesson to me. Keep sharing - the befores and afters, the pain. Expressing it all is an act of love for Kyle. I enjoy hearing about how he experienced things like it was the first time - even if it was the twenty fifth time. It's a way of being that celebrates and that seems to be Kyle's lesson for me...right now. Love - Michele
ReplyDeleteIt was a treat to spend time with Mitchell today, and to catch up with you, Tammy and Doug. I have loved reading what you have both shared in this blog. It is so honest, and it opens up all of my deep feelings for Kyle.
ReplyDeleteI am reminded with Halloween approaching, how much I loved getting a good scream or laugh out of Kyle. There is nothing better. Nothing. Hiding in a closet. Turning off the lights, growling, and chasing the boys into the fort. Mitch didn't like it when the lights went off. Kyle yelled "More, More!" I would do anything to amuse him. We would giggle until my belly hurt.
When I hang out with Mitch now as an only child, I feel the difference without the huge presence Kyle. I just want to give Mitch a big hug, but we play a game of football instead. I have been scared I will fall apart when I don't see Kyle waiting when I get to the house. I try not to fall apart at the wrong time or won't be able to stop crying.
Tammy, Doug, and Mitch obviously love so deeply and it is wonderful to hear the about the beautiful adventures I never went on with Kyle. I love hearing how things are going and what is on your heart. It is great that Mitch has a journal. It is so special to get to spend anytime with Mitch. He has blossomed into quite a young man now. So polite, intelligent, and focused (yoyo's, football). It was a pleasure to get to spend some time with you all today.
Love~Marni
You all are amazing.
I have my ipod on shuffle and tonight two Old 97's songs came on in a row....and I can't help but smile and think of Kyle. He would have asked for it to be played louder and would have wanted the song replayed.
ReplyDeleteAs his birthday approaches, my heart breaks for all of us, but especially Tammy, Doug and MItch. I had the pleasure of attending quite a few of Kyle's celebrations. He loved being the center of attention and I was always amazed at the cakes Tammy created. Tam, do you remember the one birthday when you hid pennies all over the house and the boys spent hours searching for them?
As always, my thoughts and love are with you all....but my thoughts will be especially strong on December 6th.
xxoo,
Erin
Kyle, I woke up this morning and you were in my heart. Happy 13th Birthday, Kyle! These past eight months have been filled with so many memories of you. Just Friday night, I was at dinner @ Cousins and saw a little colorful minivan. You would have loved it! It looked so much like your Scooby van. Right before Thanksgiving, I was making a little hand turkey card with your cousin Chloe. You were right there with us, Kyle! I wanted her to color in her little fingers that I had just traced. She held up her open hand to me and said, "Wait Grandma, I am eating!" I can't remember how many times you did that very same thing to me! I remember how you used to put up your hand with your BIG smile and wait for me to laugh! Kyle, you would love playing with your little cousin Chloe. She has now figured out how she can use her words to say almost anything. In fact, do you remember how your Mom used to say, "Use your words, Kyle" when you got so excited and we couldn't understand you? I want so much to be able to give you a BIG "birthday hug," but this will have to do. Happy 13th Birthday, Kyle! from, your Aunty Debby
ReplyDeleteToday is Kyle's birthday, he would have been 13. I was just talking to my sister Debby and we were chatting about how he would have been a teenager, but both of us agreed that Kyle had already started acting like a teenager. The dismissive looks, the rolling of the eyes, the exhaling of disgust, the dramatic dropping of the shoulders, the attraction to girls, the posing to look cool, the hair toss and the bopping of his head to the beat. All of that was the teenage Kyle. Too cool too hold my hand in public, but still able to give the best hugs. What I would give for one more hug.
ReplyDeleteWhen I would tuck him in at night I would always tell him how proud I was of him. Some nights it would be how good a big brother he was, how good of a reader he was, or some tangible thing. He would always agree with me, his eyes would shine and a big smile would come over his face. And then he would give me a big hug and say "Love you mom."
When Kyle was born he was 6 pounds. Just a little guy. He was born with an under developed sucking reflex, so in the very beginning we tracked every ounce he ate. Wrote it down. He had to get back to his birth weight before he left the hospital. I will never forget the first time someone mentioned something about doing some genetic testing on him. We were in total denial. He was perfect. Turns out they suspected he had Down Syndrome. They were right. They delivered the news with no cushion and we felt as though our world had been shaken to the core. We had no idea what Down Syndrome meant or what it would mean to our lives. Imagine that news when you are already reeling from not knowing what to do with a newborn. It was overwhelming.
After the shock of having a newborn waned, but the unknown of DS was at the forefront, I took Kyle to the University of Washington to check out what I had heard was the best place to be with a child with DS. It was an early intervention school. It eased my fears as soon as I went in and saw several classrooms of babies and toddlers having fun. They were running around laughing, playing with toys, eating snacks. They were just like every other kid only they just reached the developmental milestones later. Whew. I knew at that point that it would be okay.
I have at times pondered if someone offered me a pill to take away Kyle's DS, would I give it to him? I would weigh the fact that his IQ would raise, and he would be able to do things like drive when he was older. Those are all good things. But in the end, I would always come back to NO, Kyle is Kyle and I wouldn't change him a bit. He is happy, which is something that a high IQ doesn't buy AND he is loved. Those things will never change.
Happy birthday Kyle. I love you more than you could have ever known. I am proud to have been your mom.
This day has been only slightly less painful than the day Kyle left us. Everything Tammy says, above, about Kyle becoming a teenager is so true. This birthday is something I had so looked forward to because I knew it was going to make Kyle so happy. He was already on cloud nine because he had left his grade school (after 9 years, beginning when he was 2 years 9 months old) and was attending the 5th & 6th grade intermediate school. Kyle absolutely flourished at his new school. He had matured so quickly and was very motivated to fit in with his peers. We met with Kyle's teachers early last year and a big topic was inappropriate behavior. Looking back, Kyle had eliminated all of the bad behavior and he did it himself. It happened so effortlessly we didn't even notice. As Tammy said, Kyle lit up when he was praised and I so wish I could see that look look and tell him how proud I am of his hard work at school.
ReplyDeleteWe started to realize how much Kyle had progressed and how much he had been accepted at school when we began hearing from his classmates last spring. His love of music was mentioned by everybody and most could name his favorite song, he called it "Horse Cowboy." Because of his disability, we didn't know what school would be like for Kyle. We worried that being "different" would separate Kyle from the other kids and it made us proud and happy when we heard how well accepted he was and how interactive he had become. In grade school, Kyle was much more the loner and didn't seek to mix much.
The Horse Cowboy song is actually "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy" by Big & Rich. We know it well here at home, we heard it everyday, literally, for at least 18 months. Kyle was a bit of a Big & Rich fan, but became a fanatic after we saw them live at the Puyallup fair in September 2007. The concert started after dark and from the moment the lights came up and the first note hit us, Kyle was out of his seat and going full-speed. He was pumped and he didn't calm down until the show ended and we were half way home. The next morning we began the daily Big & Rich sessions, usually complete with Kyle singing and doing the moves he learned from the Big & Rich concert we recorded for him. I would kid him each morning and say "not again, do we really have to listen to Big & Rich again?", I would get the famous Kyle smile and he would shamelessly plug in his iPod and crank the Big & Rich.
I can get caught up in guilt and focus on the things I didn't do with Kyle or do for Kyle, but then someone will mention how happy Kyle was how much he enjoyed being with us. He would regularly ask "Daddy, stay home" to find out if I was going out to a meeting and, if I said I was going out he would quickly say "No, Daddy stay home." When we passed my regular Tuesday night meeting place Kyle would always say "Daddy, no meeting." If he was home, he wanted us home.
We learned, though, that Kyle loved his independence and he was quick to dismiss us when we dropped him at his first week long summer camp. I expected a bit of reluctance, but he told us to "go home" and he was off. He went to several camps and each time he sent us packing. We would pick him up at the end of the week, he would be glad to see us, but quick to tell us he would go back right away.
Continued below
So now our mornings are no longer filled with the sound of Big & Rich and I don't chase Kyle up the stairs to bed at night. The little yellow school bus doesn't show up at our door each morning and we no longer hear Scooby Doo playing in the background. We do still have everything that belonged to Kyle right where he left it. Mitch wants Kyle's stuff to stay in their room and I want his plastic tub of cars left in the livingroom where he last played with them. My biggest fear is having any of the memories fade.
ReplyDeleteI have been told it takes two years to recover from a loss like this. I know people who have lost children and they are happy and live full lives and they tell me I will too. There is enough evidence for me to believe that intellectually, but I can't believe it emotionally. Other than Kyle's death, I have cried more today than all previous times combined.
Today I try to focus on how happy Kyle was. When he was crabby he was either hungry or needed to get out of the house and then he was OK again. He was the easiest baby I have ever seen or heard about and not much changed as he grew up. Like Tammy mentioned, he had some attitude and was quick to let you know what was ok and what wasn't, but he didn't linger in anything negative. Anything unpleasant was quickly put behind and away he would go.
I so hope that he is looking down from some perfect happy place. When I am at my worst and crying I talk to Kyle and tell him not to worry, that I will be OK, its just that I miss him so.
At those moments I can hear him say "Daddy, sad all done."
Night Night, Punkin man. I love you.
Daddy
Like everyone else, I thought of Kyle today. It still does not feel real to me at times. But today all I could think of was calling Kyle to wish him happy birthday.
ReplyDeleteWhen Kyle was born I was elated. I remember when Tammy found out she was pregnant and Doug called me and said he was going to take me up on my offer to babysit. I had always told him if he had a baby I would babysit anytime. I so wanted a neice or nephew. Then when Kyle was born I remember the tears because no one knew what the future would be like.
Of course the future was wonderful. Kyle's smile, which can't be mentioned enough. I can't explain it to people who never saw it. I can only say it lit up a room. I remember I would feel so loved when he would see me and break into that grin.
Once I asked Mitch and Kyle who they would want waiting for them at the bus stop, Marnie or me. I knew that the answer was Marnie, they both love Marnie. I just wanted to see what they would say. Mitch, as always, was honest and said Marnie. Kyle said me. I can't help but cry when I think of that. It was so Kyle, wanting me to be happy.
Happy birthday Kylie. I love you.
Aunt Jane
well Kyle this is your special day and I wanted to be here to tell you Happy 13th birthday. You have been gone now for 8 months but to me it feels like yesterday. Every day that goes by I keep on asking myself "why" it's because I just miss you so much. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I'd give anything to just see you one more time to get a hug and kiss from you. I try to be strong but at times yes I still shed tears for you but I see you smiling at me and you telling me it will be alright. I know you are in gods hands and I know he will take good care of you! Yes at times I come on your website just to read what everyone has said. It has help me through this! I love you Kyle and where ever you are I know you are smiling and dancing to the music:) Keep on rocking because Kyle that is who you are! Happy Birthday Kyle. I love you! Love Aunt Jami
ReplyDeleteMy Sweetie Pie Kyle
ReplyDeleteI can only imagine how proud you would have been to have become a teenager ! I remember the day I saw you born. When you were in the incubater and got fussy I stroked your little arm with my fingers and right then and there you were my most precious baby. I could have held you sleeping in my arms forever, but invariably someone would come along that wanted to hold you and I would have to give you up.
As you got older I only loved you more and when you were sleeping (with your thumb in your mouth) you were my angel.We used to take naps together and I would sing to you and you are the only one who liked my singing,I used to make up songs for you.Who's the bestest baby in the whole wide world? Mr Kyle Melby. When you were older I would stop at the end and you would say Kyle Melby.
Happy thirteenth birthday bestest teenager in the whole wide world-Mr Kyle Melby
Your Grama Donna will love you forever and ever.
Happy Birthday Kyle. My thoughts were filled with you yesterday…..your warm smile, your big hugs, and your contagious laughter. I miss you so much. I will never forget that Scooby doo van cake that Tammy made so creatively on your 9th birthday ; there was magic and joy in your face when you saw the cake. I just had a memory of how fun it was to watch Kyle during swim lessons. He had a blast, totally not following directions, and the instructor was exhausted trying to keep up with him. She just didn’t get that it was about having fun. Kyle would subtlety splash her in the face now and again to get a giggle. That’s what I loved about him. What a sense of humor. It was a joy watching Kyle interact with the world and people around him, because I learned more about how I want to be. I want to be more like Kyle. When I began working with Kyle, my life was going through a huge transition, and Kyle gave me a whole new perspective on life that I really needed. I would rather hang out with him playing cars or playing music than hang out with my other friends. I feel that I found a true friend in Kyle. He was someone I could just hang out with and we didn’t have to say a word, and we just got each other. I feel lucky to have gotten to be a part of his life and when I think about him, there is so much to celebrate and honor about him. Kyle, I love you and am so proud of the boy I got to see blossom in front of me. I wish I could give you a big hug.
ReplyDeleteLove, Marni
I just want to tell you all how beautiful and uplifting the Marimba dedication for Kyle was. I have thought about Kyle so much in the past year, sometimes with sadness but mostly with joy in remembering what a tour de force he was - uncompromisingly himself. I have one memory that just really stands out for me and one I go back to often when I think about Kyle. It was during our camping trip for Outdoor Ed in the Spring of Kyle's 4th grade year at Ordway. I was the parapro for both Matthew and Kyle on that trip. I had such a good time with the boys riding on the bus with them watching them canoe and hike and climb trees. I remember one night when Kyle was tired and we decided that it would be a good idea to go back to his cabin and settle down and read some stories. I had found some books on racoons in the library and brought them along. So once Kyle got in his jammies and in bed I began reading the racoon story to him and it must have been really a good one because the next thing I knew I looked up and he was sound asleep. I will never ever forget the sweet smile on his face as he slept and the look of complete contentment. And I thought to myself "you know, Kyle never has a bad day". What a blessed boy he was. Some people go their whole lives without feeling the love and acceptance that was showered on Kyle every day of his life. He knew how good he had it. Knew that he had won the lotto when it came to his family, his friends and the people who came to know and love him through school, like me. I remember getting to work with him every day and just realizing that I had fallen in love with his spirit; his goodness, his kindness and his remarkable sweetness. I will never forget how excited he would get when we discovered another "flavor" of marker to smell, Kyle was always right there with you in your excitment and made life so much fun. I will always be forever grateful that in this life my path crossed Kyle's, he was a rare gem.
ReplyDelete-Kim Walker
Kyle how time passes so fast and it has already been a year now. To me it seems impossible. I love you Kyle and I do miss your smile too! I remember the first time your mom put you in my arms and I felt this special connection and so much love. Kyle you really showed me what love is and I will always treasure all the special love you gave to me. My heart will always be empty for you but I know how much we loved each other. I love you so much Kyle but I love your brother too. Sometimes I catch myself still shedding tears for you but there isn't a day that I don't think of you. Kyle you had shown everyone what love is. You are one special kid! I love you Kyle and always will. Love your Aunt Jami
ReplyDeleteDear Sweetie Pie Kyle
ReplyDeleteI thought it would be lot easier by now.I think of you every day and miss you so much. Your Papa and I took Mitch down to see my sister and her family in Vancouver and we had a wonderful time.Mitch and his cousin Yousef played computer games until the game overheated and turned off ! You would have loved it.
There is another Melby boy at Sakai now and you would have been in High School,can you believe that? Mitch is such a good student and athelete,we are so proud of him.
I remember when you were in the Christmas program at school when the two little girls held your hands coming in.Now you would be going to school dances !!!
You are in my heart always and forever.
Love
Grama Donna
My Sweetie Pie - It should have got a lot easier by now people tell me but I haven't found it so. You were such a large part of our lives they just can't be the same again.I still remember the good times and try not to dwell on the sad and maybe with that things will get better.Mitch has started baseball again and we will go to his games,you would have loved going to his games and cheering him on,you were such a good big brother.
ReplyDeletefor ever and ever you will be my Sweetie Pie
Love
Grama Donna
Dear Kyle,
ReplyDeleteI think about you so very often. I miss you more as time goes on. I chuckle when I think about me taking you to McDonald"s and you always wanted endless hamburgers. You would stash away the hamburger patties and just eat the buns. You simply loved bread. But I got suckered into buying LOTS of hamburgers. And I caught you trying to get to the bread on top of the fridge. You were always many steps ahead of me. I love you Kyle. Always.
Marni
I can't believe you would have been 17 today . I love you always my sweety pie Grandma Donna
ReplyDelete