October 8, 2007 - It's been 3 very long weeks since I found myself sending out that first surreal email announcing Matty's accident and tragic death. Like so many of you, I am still finding it hard to even comprehend not having that knucklehead around anymore. I've known Matty as long as anyone could have. Out of all the 1000's of great Crinester stories, I am proud to say that my mind is full of some of the oldest and most beloved.

There's one picture in this presentation, a black and white photo, the first image in the #8 Songbird segment below, where Jeff and me are looking down into a crib where Matty lay. It was his first day home from the hospital after being 'hatched'. This is one of my oldest life memories - eagerly awaiting his arrival... the front door swinging gently open and then Mom entering, holding him so lovingly in her arms. I was only 4 at the time. Our lives were never going to be the same. He had arrived.

The presentation that follows is the PG Rated version of Matty's memorial service held on September 22, 2007. I have chosen to put it on the web so it will be accessible to as many friends and family as possible. The content is in Adobe Flash , which most computers can easily play. The files however are quite large, as the entire content totals almost 1 full hour. You will need a 'fast' internet connection to view the content off the web.

I realize that not everyone has the luxury of this type of fast web access, so I've made a separate HELP Page available with instructions on how to either simply download the content to your computer, then play it, or request a DVD/CD that I will have available in the near future. One suggestion that I can make for those who will have difficulty viewing the slideshow as it currently is, try visiting your local library's computers. Most all libraries have the fastest internet connections available which should work fine. Just ask for headphones.

If you will be watching the videos numerous times, please consider downloading them anyway. The files are so huge, I will end up paying a fortune in bandwidth fees. Go the the HELP Page to access and download the files directly when you get a chance. The download files are in Apple Quicktime - FYI. Cheers.

Tip a glass or 3 to Matty before and/or during this presentation. Begin Segment 1 now.