Squishy Muscles

I remember the day the Trumans moved in two doors down from my family. I don't mean to rat out my sisters and I, but we watched out our rumpus room window as a gaggle of handsome boys carried in their boxes. We were even more excited when we learned there was a sister that would become a great friend to all of us. As I've thought about the amazing Truman family this week, my heart was warmed by many memories throughout the years. Phil and Lucinda were such great parents, it's no wonder they raised such amazing children.

For some reason one funny story about Wes kept coming to my mind that I had to share. Wes was probably six or seven years younger than me, so I didn't know him very well. One day, Suzy and my sister and I were sitting in the backseat of my mom's car in the driveway watching Wes, Ryan and Jeremy play. Suzy was bragging about how big Wes' muscles were and decided to call him over to the car to show off his guns. (He couldn't have been more than ten years old at the time.) Trying to be humble, Wes resisted Suzy's request until our begging got too annoying. Wes flexed his little arm and we were all duly impressed when his muscle popped up. Suzy insisted everyone feel Wes' muscle, which I think embarrassed him terribly. He might have been trying to defer our attention by pointing out that Ryan also had good muscles. Ryan took his turn flexing while Wes complimented his strength. Jeremy was watching the events and sadly said that he didn't have any muscles. Being the good friend that he was to these boys, Wes turned to him and encouragingly said, "Yes you do, Jeremy! You just have squishy muscles."

As I've read this blog over the past few months, it has become apparent to me that Wes was always this kind of friend to everyone. I am so touched by these beautiful tributes. The other thing that stands out in my mind about "Little Wes" is the way his older siblings loved and adored him. I remember always thinking how neat it was that they all treated him so kindly and loved him so much. Suzy spent a lot of time at our house and she was always doting over and looking out for Wes. I love the Truman family and hope they feel of the love and prayers that so many are offering on their behalf. Wes learned how to be a parent from two of the greatest people I know, so I know he was an excellent husband and father. Though I haven't met Lori or their children, they are in my thoughts and prayers.

Gretchen Richards Brown