What an incredible two weeks we’ve had here at SAM’s land. With Fall’s
changing colors Judy and I have been racing to get a Peace Garden ready and
planted before the leaves all fall, and the snow begins to blow.

Judy came up with the idea of a Peace Garden next to the present building about
two months ago. We began brain-storming with each other about how it could look and
where it could go. The biggest need, of course, was perennial plants and black dirt.
With our financial situation being like most people’s - month to month - we knew
we didn’t have the funds for either need right now.

But then something wonderful happened. Judy’s sister, Peggy, mentioned a neighbor
who had a HUGE flower garden in her front and back yard. Peggy contacted the neighbor,
whose name is also Pat, and talked about our need. Pat checked us out and before we knew
it she was offering us all sorts of plants for free! She has given us Blue Bells, Daisies,
Lillies, Sedum, Hostas, Walnut trees, Bamboo bushes, Iris’, Hens and Chicks, Peony
plants and more. In fact, there were so many plants we needed a large trailer just to
haul them all to our land. Check out the pictures of the garden and the fall colors below.
By the way, Pat had also had a child die. Her first-born died at birth on October 13, the
same day of the month as our daughter Mickey died on. Some might say it was just a
coincidence that we met Pat, but Judy and I know better.

On Sat., Oct 11, we had several volunteers come to help us plant the garden and help
with brush clean-up. Judy and I want to extend a special thank you to Bob & Pam Lemonds,
John and Peggy McKay, Rod & Geri Kampa, Don Fitzpatrick, Missy Caughlan and Clarine Sander
for their help. Let me tell you, they worked hard in pretty dreary weather - including rain -
to get everything done. By the time we were finished the garden was planted, our fire ring
had a great field stone border in place, and a LOT of brush and trees were cut up and
prepared for use.

On Monday, Oct. 13 Judy and I observed the 20th anniversary of our daughter, Mickey’s,
death. It is hard to believe it has been so long since Mickey died. As Judy and I looked
back at those dark days that Mickey was in her coma we were reminded of so much pain
and agony. And although it’s been 20 years, the pain at times is still so fresh. It also
motivates us even more to get Mickey’s Lodge built so we can help other parents and
surviving siblings deal with the pain we know too much about. Every day Judy and I realize
more and more the need for a place like SAM. We’re dedicated to making this vision a
reality.

Judy works at getting the garden ready for planting the perennials.
In the foreground you can see the path of the garden, as well as a
pile of sand that will become a waterfall next Spring.

Geri Kampa (lf) and Judy talk about where to plant one of the
perennials in the garden.

Don Fitzpatrick (lf) and Rod Kampa put the finishing touches on the
fire ring next to the Peace Garden.

Beautiful leaves cover the paths leading down to the lake. It’s been
wonderful to see the many colors of nature here.

This is the view right now from our front window. Just beautiful.

Well, we’ve got some people coming to see what we’re doing here today, so I’d better
sign off. Once again Judy and I want to thank each one of you for helping us make SAM a
reality. Please don’t stop telling your friends about SAM. We love you all - Pat & Judy