Big Time!

First, the medical & miscellaneous news:

Tim spent a good amount of time in the walker today, and in wheelchair group - held at nearby North Station - he learned a groovy new move that allows him to ride escalators. Looking forward to seeing that, even though it will be of no value out here in the Berkshires! He wrapped up the day with a nice visit from Uncle John and Noir, who will stop by to see Tim while Amy accompanies me to Kansas City for a few days. I'm attending a week long convention, but Amy will return on Sunday. And for those keeping track, Tim as moved to yet another room.

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On the local front, HUGE thanks to the Bradbury family of WS, who went above and beyond their regular lawn cutting by blowing and piling our leaves for us. Another huge load off our minds. Thank you.

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Now, the big news:

Amy got the call around 8:20 - my colleague Ken from the state tourism office with news that the Governor was going to make a public proclamation honoring the Red Sox and that Betsy had arranged for Tim to be invited. Since Amy was already home, a couple of quick calls were made and Brigitte zipped down to escort him. They got on the T and met Ken at Park Street. He escorted them up to the State House and right in to the Governor's office, where they patiently waited. While they were there, Doug Mirabelli and Jason Varitek came in and when they heard someone say "Hi Tim," they both said "Hi Tim!" They were then escorted out onto the Governor's balcony to watch the goings on:

http://www.boston.com/news/globe/city_region/breaking_news/2007/10/statehouse_cere.htmlAfter the festivities, they mingled with the crowd, and met up with Beth from the Sox, who had helped us get to a game earlier this year. She recognized Tim and after chatting a bit, arranged

for some special photos with Tim.

Finally, Tim and Brigitte had a chance to meet their host, who is also a neighbor of ours out in West Stockbridge, living just over the line in Richmond. Brigitte relates that when Governor Patrick met Tim, he said "I know just who you are - every time I go into the Video Store I see those bracelets. Tim - I think everyone in Western Mass is pulling for you." We know that support comes from way beyond Western Mass, but that is the epicenter. According to Betsy, "Tim was very poised with the Governor. Bridgette was also lovely (as she) chatted with the Governor" Not a bad follow up to yesterday's disappointment in missing the parade. Thank you Betsy, Ken and Governor Patrick.