Thursday, July 23, 2009

Down syndrome play group - Grand Rapids

We have been going to a play group for people who have children with Down syndrome two wednesdays a month here in Grand Rapids...
It is such a wonderful group.
We are so blessed to be a part of it.
Every time we go, we are greeted and embraced by people who are genuinely supportive and interested in our adoption process.
It's so lovely, and such a blessing.
Every time we go, we are less and less afraid of the thought,
"what are we getting ourselves in to!?"
Remember we didn't choose to adopt a little girl with Down syndrome - God showed us, and we followed...
It can be intimidating sometimes.
But, after 3.5 books (and a dozen to go!) - and spending time with these people's gorgeous, wonderful, little children - we are realizing that kids with DS are soooo much more like 'typical/normal' children that you'd ever realize.
And we're realizing just how blessed we are to have been picked, and trusted to parent one of these angels.
Every time we go, it is bitter sweet.
We go to see a glimpse of our future, and we get to see our daughter's face in their kids.. and it's also hard because it makes me miss Olive so much.
It makes me yearn to hold her and kiss her chubby little hands, and big cheeks.
But, every time we go, we leave feeling refreshed.
It confirms in us that this is what God has for us, and we are thrilled, excited, and eager to be a part of this community of families with children who have DS.

2 comments:

And patiently waiting... said...

I am so happy that you are following God's lead to get your daughter! :) Can't wait to keep following your journey!

Nate and Emily said...

Way to go! It's awesome that you guys are already preparing yourselves for Olive's arrival in creative ways.
Doctors always remind me that Carson is 95% normal baby, 5% spina bifida. It's easy to get caught up in the special health issues instead of normal baby stuff!
You guys are going to make great parents for Olive!