Buddy Walk

Yesterday was our first Buddy Walk. It was really a short walk as an excuse to get people together. I loved being in a place where there so many people with DS and those that loved them. I've talked to a few family members but this outpouring support for the whole community was great to see.  I almost cried a few times when I saw the following shirts and when I really thought about what was going on there.

Love doesn't count chromosomes
Friends don't count chromosomes
My daughter rocks her extra chromosome

A few people talked to us and were really nice. They gave me hope that Russell could lead a wonderful life. I know he can, I just have to overcome my initial thoughts and get the truth of what is possible for him ingrained in my head.

There were booths from a pediatric dentist to Young Life. The dentist said people with DS can have a lot of oral health problems. His daughter has DS too. YL has a ministry just for those with special needs. How great is that? The local group is at the high school nearby in Shoreline.

Next year, I think I'll get more involved, maybe volunteer and/or get more people to join us.

Russell Sure Loves His Mama

Matt calls Russell a Mama's boy. He gets upset if he hears my voice when i get home from work and I don't come see him. Matt has to work to get a smile and I get one all the time just because he is with his Mama. It is very cute. I love it. As I'm writing this, he is on my lap talking, laughing and smiling at me.

Russell is 14 pounds and doing great. He got some shots last week that made him a little grumpy for a couple of days...but who really likes getting shots?