Two weekends ago, Mark and Momma attended the annual Mitchell's Medals day sponsored by the Elgin Children and Family Services.  This event has been held annually since a tragic event that occurred where the need to promote water safety became a major focus for the children in the care of the CAS service.  The day started with time at the YMCA in St. Thomas where the children are encouraged to work with a lifeguard to promote their water skill and safety.  The next stop was a action filled day at Pinafore Park in St. Thomas.  There was a BBQ, popcorn, cake and lots of events for the kids.  Mark was very excited and did not sit down the whole time we were there except to eat his cake and get his face painted.  Momma was very tired at the end of the day but it was wonderful to see him enjoy all the fun.  I tried to get him focused on making a necklace of beads so that I could sit down for a few minuets but he lasted about forty-five seconds and then rushed off again.  Essentially he was running away from sleep and kept running so that he did not stall out.  He especially liked the goats, geese and the fancy chickens.  He seemed quite fascinated by the reptiles but still was a bit scared and did not want to hold the snakes or go into the enclosure to be with the alligator or tortoise.  Whew!!!  Momma would have leaped into a pit of snakes to save you but only if necessary.  The day ended with Mark having three pieces of cake and then having his face painted as a pirate.  I had promised to take him over to the water park and the swings so it was almost 5:00 p.m. before I wrestled him into the car to come home.  A very long day that started at 7:00 a.m. When we got home I put him right in bed with some of the face paint still on.  What a great day!  Thanks Elgin CAS for the day and the lesson in water safety.  Mitchell you will always be remembered.  To have one of your medals will be something that I will encourage Mark to strive for.  He will have to practice more in the water, but hopefully next year he will be able to claim one.