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Mom was a big believer in getting me outside, especially on sunny, warm days in spring and summer. She didn't want me to become a "shut-in.' So often we would take walks to Reeves Park, where we would have an ice cream cones and bask in the fresh air. For me, just getting outside whenever I could meant so much, especially since I was confined to bed quite often.

Another strolling destination was downtown Phoenixville. Shopping malls didn't exist yet in my area, so the downtown business district was bustling with shoppers all the time. I had my favorite stores and little shops, each with their own uniqueness and  memories. First  was the big department store at the corner of Main St. and Bridge St. called W.T. Grants.

 You could get anything at Grants, be it clothing to houseware. But the thing I fondly remember about grants was the delicious aroma of freshly-made popcorn as soon we entered. The term "fresh popcorn" was everywhere. including on the red and white striped boxes. And it was the best popcorn ever, something to look forward to each trip.

Charles Music Shop was where I bought all my 45s and lps back in the day. It was so much fun  to browse the record racks. Charlie always knew the kind of music I liked, and would keep me alert to new releases.

Batts Toy Store had the latest board games in their front window, and already I was making my Christmas list in summer. Seacrests Drug Store had everything, from newspapers, comic books and greeting cards, to packs of baseball cards in the spring, and real root beer floats anytime.Woolworth's ( otherwise known as the "Five and Dime store") was a prominent fixture in town.

Some of these quaint  stores were accessible to someone  in a wheelchair. Some had a step or two to negotiate.It didn't matter. Mom was always determined to make the best out of any situation. If we were out for the day she made sure I would have fun.

God bless Mom. There is a special bond between a mother and a special needs child. We couldn't be any closer. It was that way from those early days until the end.