The Tradition Continues

It all started more than 60 years ago, when my granddad was playing with his son (my Daddy).

We have a picture that shows just how it happened.

Unfortunately, the tradition was delayed a little because girls (my sister and I) are just too cautious.

But when Max was little, we carried on the tradition, both with his Daddy and his granddaddy.

All of our kids have joined in the fun.

And today -

Zeb participated in the family tradition.

I am so THRILLED to have this picture!

A Perfect Night for a Party!

Thursday was Zeb's third birthday. So, last night we had a big party in the park. Our family and closest friends came to celebrate a life that was almost forgotten. But the pictures show just how loved and adored our boy actually is.

Zeb had a great time! He was held and played with every minute. He smiled. He giggled. He even proved he was meant to be a Texan, as he ate TWO platesfuls of pulled pork and baked beans.

He LOVED everyone singing "Happy Birthday" while he danced and then applauded.

He wasn't sure about the presents, but quickly found out how fun it is to rip off paper and see what's inside.

Then he had to play peek-a-boo in the gift bag!

We found a treasure when we found "Wilson" on Reece's Rainbow. And we enjoyed doting on him and celebrating his life last night. Every day is a blessing. I pray I don't ever take that for granted.

We Love You, Zebadiah!

Happy Birthday!

Doctors and Dentists and More - Oh My!

Our days seem to lead from one appointment to another. We saw our family doctor the week we got home. Zeb is healthy and his heart sounds great! He obviously needs to gain weight, which I'm pretty sure he is doing. We'll go back again in March.

Last week, we had an appointment with the dentist. We were immediately referred to a pediatric dentist since his mouth is so full of dental problems. Sounds like we are facing oral surgery to fill cavities and possibly extract some teeth. We'll know more after our visit next Tuesday.

Today, we went to the opthamologist. Zeb was wonderful and had no trouble with the eye drops. We have a prescription for glasses and I will post a pic of his new frames as soon as we get them.

Now we are just waiting on our Neurodevelopmentalist to call us to schedule an evaluation. I can't wait to get him started with some therapy. He seems much closer to walking on his own. I'm hoping his new glasses will help his balance some. Also, he just this morning started saying "Bye-bye" while waving goodbye to people.

Have I mentioned how much we all adore this boy? He makes everyone around him smile. He's such a blessing!

We Saved One

What about the others?

When we first started our adoption process, we knew we had room in our house and in our hearts for more than one child. So, we planned to adopt "Wilson" and another little boy from the same region. But a very short time into the journey, God made it very clear that we were only to get one. I struggled with that. I said, "But God we are willing to get two." And His reply every single time was, "I'm only asking you to save one."

I didn't understand then and honestly, I don't understand now. But clearly, God has a plan for the one we left behind. I KNOW he was in the same orphanage with Zeb. We didn't ever see him, even though I kept my eyes peeled for him. I just wanted one glimpse. And yet, God probably knew I wouldn't handle it very well.

So, I just wanted to take today to re-introduce you to "Langley".

He will be 4 this month. Unfortunately, that means his time in the baby house is drawing to a close. Please pray for Langley with me. Pray that his family finds him soon. I don't want the day to come when his profile reads, "Help! I've already been transferred!"

Zeb is such a HUGE blessing to our family. "Langley" will be a HUGE blessing to his family too.

Perfect Timing

Today is the first day of Down Syndrome Awareness month. And although I would love to sign up to be one of the bloggers who will blog every day this month, I know myself too well. I am going to try to keep up, but the pressure would have me failing for sure!

Anyway, I thought the best way to start out the month would be to post a story that warmed my heart. We all want our kids to be accepted, to make friends, and to feel included. That holds especially true for our children with designer genes.

This story is about a girl who achieved all of these things in a very public way.

Watch:

http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/Azle-senior-with-Down-syndrome-wins-Homecoming-Queen-130894983.html

And a standing ovation to follow: