Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Donating Katie's Books

Today, I did something that I haven't been able to face until now: giving away Katie's books to the Bainbridge Island Public Library, according to her will.

I knew that I would do this eventually, because it was Katie's wish, but I couldn't face going through her books. I tried, but it made me too sad. Then, one day last week, I found that I could do it. I picked out only the books that we don't want to keep for sentimental reasons, or for David, or for the possibility of --dare I write this? -- grandchildren, some day. So I called Gail, who was Katie's mentor (when she was a volunteer at the library), and we made an appointment to meet. I took a large box of books with me, as well as some magazines that needed to be donated. (Here is a photo of Gail, with Katie's books.)


[Some of these will be given to other organizations, since the library didn't need all of them. I am going to take the rest of the books to the Hutch School, which I've written about before; they can use donations. If you live in the area and want to help, they have a wish list on their website.]

I feel good about carrying out Katie's wishes, and it was lovely to see Gail, who knew Katie (and appreciated her character). I am still amazed that Katie got to be a volunteer at such a young age. It was really the only "job" that she ever had, other than dog-sitting, or helping to greet guests and take care of coats at a neighbor's party. I thank God that she got to experience the joy and responsibility of volunteering at the public library. She liked it so much that she even discussed the possibility of working there, one day in the future.

8 comments:

Busy Bee Suz said...

Your Katie is just an amazing girl. Volunteering at such a young age...and thinking of others after she passed. So wonderful.
I imagine this would be very hard for you. Books can be such a personal item and I think you were very wise to keep some for the future.
thank you for sharing,
Suz

Najia said...

Sweet Karen, hello!

I am so in love with your courage. Katie's books are full of her spirit and you are sharing that beauty. I wish I could check out one of the books. Reading it and turning the pages she turned with her precious hands would be an amazing connection.

I'm planning on a trip up to Seattle to visit Troublemaker Laura. I would love to meet you!

You know, we were flying back from Europe on August 16 and I sat on that plane thinking it was the one year anniversary of your Katie's passing. I wondered if she was up there in the clouds with me? Did she know me? Did she recognize me from my blog? I prayed that she did.

I said hello to her for you and pressed my hand to the window. Ed thought I was losing my mind as my lips moved with my whispers. I asked Katie to see if she could find my Nick up there somewhere, because he would for sure give her many Golden kisses. I asked her to give him a giant hug for me, and if she perchance had a veggie steamer handy, to also maybe steam some broccoli for my sweet boy. I'm sure I heard her say 'sure!'. :-)

I'm looking forward to catching up with you here...and possibly meeting up there in the great Northwest.

Love to you all...
KBL

Najia said...

Hola again! Just changed the blog title again...sorry! Wanted to let you know....thanks for the email today!

pysanki.blogspot.com said...

I can only imagine how difficult that must have been for you. I read every one of your posts and am always amazed by your strength, courage, and generosity. You are an inspiration.

Love Karla

Pam said...

I know it's hard to give things away. I'm glad you were able to do it in such a meaningful way.

HWHL said...

Karen,
You're amazing. Just an absolute well of strength .... you inspire and move me regularly!

KBL - beautiful comments, my friend. You have a beauiful heart.

Busy Bee Suz said...

Karen, I just read something interesting from one of the ladies on my Blog Roll. Her name is Suzanne and she writes on a few blogs. The one I read is Alive in Wonderland. She is very funny.
But today she had a link to a friend that was doing a fundraiser for Pediatric Cancer. I thought you would care to read it if you have a minute.
http://themomblog.freedomblogging.com/2008/10/22/going-orange-for-halloweden/2418/

Take care,
Suz

Amy said...

Your little Katie seemed like such a sweet and endearing spirit...A mature little woman for her age...what a sweet thought and I know that so many children will benefit from reading her books. I am so glad I'm getting to know her through you!