Birthday Drawing from Anthony

This drawing and an equally colorful letter was in the mail for me today.  It meant a lot to me - although I don't quite get the blue thing, is it a frog?

I've never stopped loving this kid.  I don't write about him much anymore, but we talk once a week and I go see him every few weeks.  Once again he's saying all the right things, but something is different this time.  That does not mean I think he's going to make it - or not - I just see a huge difference in how he's spending his days, what he's talking about with me, and his attitude.  Time will tell.

Its nice to have one "son" that is able to articulate his feelings toward me.  I know Keven loves and appreciates me, but he doesn't say it much and sometimes a hug from him feels like hugging a stuffed animal - not very reciprocal.  So right or wrong, I admit, I enjoy that Ant's personality is a bit more like mine:  introspective, loving,  and able to express feelings openly.

Tomorrow I get to see Keven on my birthday!  Last two years I think he was in jail for it.  We are bringing a picnic lunch to Unidos.  I know he can't get me a gift or make me a card, so I am hoping for a really good hug.  But all I really want from him - is sobriety.

Peace, Hope and Love, Barbara