Macklen is an old soul. Since the first day I saw him in the hospital, his beautiful eyes would look right at you. There are so many times I remember holding him and M staring into my eyes like he knew something that I didn't even know about myself and life. I also loved his giggles and cuddling him around the campfire. He loved nature and trees and even when he lost his mobility, I remember him loving the trees in Leavenworth and staring up at the sky wherever we walked. He exuded love and peace and brought together so many people.

Thank you to Macklen for all of the wonderful cuddles at the soccer field while PJ and Findley played spring ball in 2016. For his cheerful eyes and beautiful chubby cheeks.

When he was older, I remember a time when Hayes was explaining to someone that Macklen recognizes people. I came over to the table and Macklen gave me a cheeky side smile, and his eyes lit up. Perfect timing to demonstrate his engagement with those who love him. 

Macklen might have been subtle at times, but he was always watching us. And with all the nurses and friends, his uncle, his brother, and both of his incredible parents, I am certain that Macklen knew that he is very loved.

Macklen has always been a great communicator and ready to interact when he had the energy. One of my favorite memories from when he just under one year old, was crashing two of Findley's cars or action figures together. Seeing his big smile and occasionally getting a little chuckle was great fun.

When he was a little older, we would spend time stretching his body and trying to find the right toy for a fun time. Macklen always had a great way of communicating his likes and dislikes through body movement, vocalizing and facial expressions and his personality was able to show through even when moving his body was more difficult. Playing with a music cube toy or the toy symphony was great fun and interesting; touching the surface of a balloon was met with Macklen's great distaste.

I am fortunate to have spent time with Macklen and I am forever grateful that I have had the pleasure of getting to know him.

Thank you Macklen for reminding us to take time to enjoy the light through the trees. We love you Swinney-Alger family!
-Andrea, Bub and Maggie

Sweet boy Macklene, you are loved sweet boy,forever in my heart you will be always.❤❤

Macklen’s Light

There was a boy who saw magic in the trees as the light broke through and danced among the leaves .
The light was warm and bright as it beckoned the boys delight. 
He felt it’s comfort and peace as the light shimmered and played and twirled..The boy smiled .
Now the boy is the light . So when you walk among the trees,look for his laughing face . Call him softly, for I know he is listening with love and peace . Be blessed with Macklen’s dancing light among the trees ✨

5/26/2021 .

Thinking of sweet Macklen Moss today. Sending love and light. I watched the sun peek out for a moment during the rainy day today and thought of Macklen as it shined its light through the trees.

I don't have a photo but I DEFINITELY have a favorite memory. 

The first time I met Macklen he was about a year old. I was able to pick him up and say hello and he smiled at me. With zero warning I burst into tears and cried like I haven't cried since I was child. Something about him and his warm presence and sweet smile broke right through every social norm and emotional defense mechanism in the world.

Their family had friends over I had never met before. We're all hanging out in the living room together and I am just bawling while holding Macklen who fortunately didn't seem to mind at all. And I'm like hi, umm, nice to meet you, sob, sob. Would one of you mind hanging out with my kids? I left them in the car in front of the house.

I still get teary just thinking about it, even right now as I write this and I'm kind of a hard @$$ about a lot of things!?!? Not this kid though. I didn't stand a chance :) 

So much love to you all.