This afternoon, I had the opportunity to bring Maisy, Elijah and Kaden to the State Theater for a live Storytime production that featured Dora the explorer, the Backyardigans, and the Wonder Pets (shows on Nick Jr.) The event was sponsored by Hopekids and it was exactly what we needed. All three kids enjoyed it so much. Because Elijah hates clapping or cheering, we were worried that he would end up in the hallway during the show, but he made it through almost all of the production. He really enjoyed it even though it caused him some stress. Maisy was absolutely delightful to watch! She participated in all of the actions and rocked back and forth to the music--she loved it! I couldn't keep my eyes off of the three of them--the innocence and wonder that each of them displayed was refreshing.
Hopekids www.hopekids.org has been such a blessing in our lives for the past few years. All of our children have been able to participate in things they may never have had the chance to try--like midget car racing, shows, concerts, catered suites to a twins game and more! We have had a chance to meet some wonderful families who are facing medical challenges like our kids. Today, we met the most beautiful 4 year old girl who lives with Cystic Fibrosis. As she was so freely sharing her little light up toy with Maisy, she didn't know it, but she was sharing much more than her new toy. She was asking about Maisy's trach and I was explaining to her that it helps Maisy to breath. This little girl smiles as her eyes lit up and said, does she have CF too?! It was just so wonderful to see kids see other kids who face similar challenges in life...sharing a fun activity while also talking of common daily experiences that children with chronic conditions must face like nebs, enxymes and BD's. Not usually the conversation you have with a just any 4 year old you would meet on the street! What a difference it makes in our lives when we meet someone who can relate to our world...what a feeling of hope it generates. We left the show having enjoyed some precious family time but also feeling a sense of camaraderie with others who walk in our shoes. It is so vital that our kids see other families who are like theirs...it gives them a sense of belongingness and normalcy that is not always easy to find.
The Hopekids motto is "Restoring Hope...Transforming Lives.." That is a motto that drives everything that Hopekids does...we are a family who has been transformed by the opportunities that we have been given through Josh Taylor and the others who are responsible for the Minnesota Chapter. They have a simple mission that changes lives in a big way. We can not thank them enough for the incredible blessings that they have showered us these last years.
Tomorrow, Lord willing, I will attend the Christian Alliance for Orphans Summit that is being held in Minneapolis this year. I have been looking forward to this for so long. I am worried about Isaac and am not sure if I will be able to get away if he is not looking better by the morning. I am hoping to attend at least some of the event. And if I am not able to attend, I will be praying that I will be able to freely put aside my disappointment and remember that all things happen for a reason..and God's timing is perfect even when it doesn't seem like it!
