Bean's Buddies....

On Saturday, we woke up to a cool crisp autumn morning. There was that sweet smell of wood stove which almost made us believe there were eggs and bacon already cooking for us in the kitchen. I actually woke up at 5 a.m. and remarked to Eric that it somehow felt like Christmas morning. I am not sure what exactly it was - Perhaps it was a combination of the sweet smell of burning wood and that all encompassing quiet of early morning. You know that kind of quiet that you take in knowing that your day will be exciting, and that somehow your day will change you. And yes it was an exciting day. A day in fact to celebrate all that Nate brings to our lives. A day to celebrate every one of his perfect 47 chromosomes!

Eric set off early in the morning to help set-up. Nate's cold was pretty bad still so we took our time getting over to the park. Nate enjoyed a steamy bath and a big bowl of oatmeal and peaches.

As soon as we got there, Eric waved me over to do an interview with him for our local radio station. Even though we had been talking and planning this day for months, in that moment it was so hard to find a few words that captured what this day meant to us. How do we explain this day to people who don't even really know what Down syndrome is? (I should tell you that Nate was quite fascinated by the big black foam-topped microphone that the dj had -and boy he really looked like he had something he wanted to say- perhaps he'll have a future on the radio!)

There was our walk, fantastic music, an amazing key note speech, and wonderful performances. In some ways the day was a blur --- so much love, so many family and friends, so many hugs, so much to celebrate. Looking back on the day, Eric and I felt like we needed more time to connect with folks. There are many people we wanted to talk to and didn't. Eric actually thought a potluck the night before could have been fun. We have also talked about setting up a parent group for the Valley. One day just isn't enough to meet and talk to people in our "tribe."

Although there are probably things that could be improved for next year, all in all, this year's Buddy Walk was a great success. The time and commitment that the planning team dedicated to this event was evident --The day was quite special. Over 200 people came and I think we raised over $6000! Pretty impressive for our first walk!!?? Right??!!

Of course minutes into the walk itself, Nate feel asleep. I guess that is what a steamy bath and a big bowl of oatmeal will do to you on a cool crisp autumn morning.....Yes, it was a pretty perfect day for all........