Chris,
You were a big part of my childhood. I remember meeting you when I was 5 years old. I was nervous moving to a new school. But when I first saw you, a little blonde hair kid with circular glasses and big grin, I knew everything would be alright.
I have so many fond memories:
Sleepovers, with stacks of videos from Blockbusters. My favourite one would be building a huge fort at your place that occupied majority of your living room.
Pushing each other academically, mostly to race against each other to see who can complete the homework the fastest.
Going through the ASL alphabet and holding up handshapes to see which one your cat liked best. (`C´ was a winner-we agreed we were lucky to have good first names.)
Going on adventures together- Niagara Falls, deaf school shenanigans, and Pacers game (in which we, deaf kids, won a pizza for the most loud scream).
Creating the wildest, most imaginative "what-if" stories and laughing until our stomachs hurt.
Always scheming ways to stall our parents when it was time to leave each other´s houses-anything for a few more minutes together.
These memories still make me smile. We sure did have a blast in the 90s with our friends and classmates.
I believe your true spirit is still here, living on through those who love you. Your sense of humor, your vivid imagination, your love for storytelling-and of course, your love for cats-are unforgettable. I´ll carry that spirit forward, for you. The world definitely needs more jokes, more creativity, and more cats.
Much love to your parents & family.
Hugs.
