Here is what we learned about our little friend, Sophie.

Sophie was an independent thinker and a true artist. The first time she came to visit Kid’s College, she knew immediately that she belonged there, and stated this firmly.

Once she became part of our art family, she dove into her projects with great passion and focus. Her face would get a look of intense joy. She always seemed to know what she was doing. Her favorite subject was horses. Her favorite artist was Dee Teller (a wise choice).

When she first started in our program she was stubborn about a few things, like washing out her cup or waiting for others, but she was quick to learn, join in and help clean up after herself. She liked to keep her locker well-organized and showed me her system for keeping track of important drawings.

She liked to trick me, telling me she was a different age, or had a different favorite color or hobby. She kept me on my toes. Eventually I figured out her crafty humor. We became close friends.

I saw her last at her first art opening in Faribault. She was so proud and happy. Her mom made the drive after a long day’s work to watch Sophie revel in the moment. I gave her a hug and told her I’d see her soon. I fell to pieces when I heard the news.

We all loved her, but Odelia was her favorite at Kid’s College. Sophie would always show her drawings to Ode first. Ode would always be impressed with her efforts.

Sophie participated in Albert Lea Rocks and was particularly excellent at finding the painted rocks hidden around town.

On her last day with us, July 1, she had the opportunity to paint with her favorite artist, Dee. After class, as Dee was leaving, Sophie ran up to her and said, “You need another hug!”

That was who she was.

Our hearts are hurting with the loss of our friend. She will always be missed.

We send our deepest sympathy to her family, and ask her mother, Sarah, to please press on because she simply must. If there is any way to ease the pain of this terrible loss for her family, we will try to find it.

We are so sorry this has happened; we don’t want to believe it.

With Love and Prayers

Your friends,

 

Susie and the whole Kid’s College crew, Sophie’s friends at the FCAI and Brandi

Albert Lea