Wednesday, May 18, 2011

The Special Olympics May 11-13th

Hi everybody!

I have been back from my latest Penny Brown Book signing since Sunday. Michelle and I had an opportunity to sell copies of I Sit In A Wheelchair...But I Will Be Okay" at the Special Olympics State games in Stillwater, OK. I don't know about Michelle, but I had a wonderful time! We were of course hanging around with The Sperry Pirate team, coached by Michelle's Mom Deanna Oakley.

One of the best thnigs I like about the games themselves is that it gives kids a chance to participate in sports, that otherwise never would have an opportunity. Some of these special kids come to school every day with not much more than the clothes on their backs. Many of these kids have medical problems that are beyond their control. However, when these special kids compete, it gives them a sense of control, and the feelling that they can do something positive in life. They may not win,or even come close at times, but just being able to participate is half the fun.

I cannot say enough good about The Sperry Pirate team. They played their hearts out. Deanna has done wonderful work with them. She also has some dedicated patents and aides who help out when needed. We came home with a gold medal a few silver, and a few bronze this year, but more important the kids felt a sense of accomplishment when crossing the finish line. These kids have inspired ME to participate next year.......and I am the biggest klutz on the planet! So, we will see what happens.

Michelle and I only sold ten copies of "I Sit In A Wheelchair....But I Will Be Okay". The weather hindered us a bit. We went from being windblown to sunburt to freezing. This is okay.....we will do better next year for sure.

I will go for now...before I close, I just wanted to say I am proud to be an honorary Pirate!!!!!

Monday, May 9, 2011

A Cute E-mail

I have been meaning to share this on my blog for a few weeks, but life has seemed to keep me from blogging lately. Michelle and I recently sat in on a panel discussion called "The Sperry Connection." This is a panel made up of the two of us and another author. These local authors all have ties to Sperry in some way.

That night after Michelle and I returned from the panel discussion, hewr mother Deanna received a cute e-mail that was meant for us. Here is the letter exactly as we recieved it.

Hi!

My name is Kelli. I am 10 years old. You and your friend were here at my school recently. I am from Sperry Intermideate. I hacve a question for you. Are you Miss Crawford or Miss Oakley (Our business cards list two seperate e-mail addresses.) I think I should have asked my Mom for ten dollars to buy your book. I like to read. Anyways, e-mail me back sometime.

Love, Kelli

This e-mail just made our day. Thanks Kelli You Rock!