Matthew was a beautiful, peaceful baby. Though he was solemn at heart, he had a good sense of humor. He was a delight to take care of, and oh, so easy to love! I gave him his middle name after my father's middle name. His grandpa who loved him so dearly.

   He was an inquisitive and introspective toddler. At a young age, he asked deeper questions about the world around him, than any other child I had known. As this wonderful little son of mine grew older, he showed other intense interests. Even at two-and-a-half, he was so fascinated with a National Geographic Video called "Rocky Mountain Beaver Pond" that he wanted to see it again and again. He was fascinated with the way the beavers chewed the trees down, built their lodges, and made their front doors beneath the water, so they, and their children could come and go without being afraid of predators.

   He had a lot of fun with his siblings, and as there were four close in age, his giggling could be heard through the house, with the others.