Thomas the Train

Thomas the Train

Opening the Chama Valley Times, a paper from a small town in the mountains of New Mexico, I saw on the first page a picture of Thomas the train. The caption read: “The little blue engine so beloved by children everywhere, once again made a stop in Chama for two weekends.” Immediately my thoughts went to my son Timothy.

One of Timothy’s favorite toys was Thomas the train. He had Thomas trains in all sizes, as well as a series of Thomas videos.  For about a year, Thomas the train was the focus of his playing attention. The pinnacle experience with Thomas the train took place in July 2009 when, during our furlough, we spent a full day with Thomas the train in southern Indiana.

Timothy was four years old at the time. He had been looking forward to this experience. I remember distinctly how Timothy was afraid when he finally met Sir Toppam Hatt in person. We ate, got on Thomas the train, and rode the train as a family, shouting, talking, and making Timothy's dream come true. We laughed and experienced wonderful moments on that hot July day in southern Indiana.

Timothy, I am so glad we got to experience Thomas the train together. I will never forget your excitement. I am sure you are having a great time in heaven, but I treasure the time you and I had with your mommy four years ago.