Gifts.

In the weeks leading up to yesterday's Buddy Walk I didn't have much opportunity to blog; I was busy trying my best to keep registrations in order, deposit money and finalizing the last minute details. I was spending my computer time sending e-mail messages to Anne and talking with her on the phone to make sure we had all of our bases covered. What little time was left after all of that was spent throwing Pop Tarts and Kentucky Fried Chicken at my family.

It is stressful to throw a party for 500 plus people, but that is exactly what it was. It was awesome party and I felt like I was given an amazing gift from all of those that participated, volunteered and planned it. I was tired at the end of the day, a bit sore, and sunburned, but I was proud of our accomplishments.

I was given the gift of friendship. Thank you Anne for the hours of conversation, for helping me find my way during the times that I struggle with Ryan's disability. Thank you for all that we will do in the future for our two beautiful boys. (I look forward to movie nights when they are 16.)

I was also given a gift because I was able to spend time with my family. Last year I didn't even know my kids were there. I saw them out of the corner of my eye a few times, but I was so busy with t-shirts and registration and just keeping things organized that I missed seeing Ryan. I was upset about that for months. This gift of time was given to me by the volunteers that came and helped us set-up, pass out t-shirts and man the registration table. They were pros!! I can't say enough good things about them. They were there for us, did anything and everything we asked of them. One of the high school girls told me that she felt like she should be doing more and I couldn't find the words to impress upon her that she and her friends were the reason everything went so smoothly yesterday and because of them I got to watch Ryan and Lilly dance and I got to actually eat a hot dog and enjoy myself.

I also have pictures thanks to Granny Freeman, Katie, friends and Susan Brewer. The pictures will help me build memories of moments that I missed.

I was given affirmation that what we do at the Buddy Walk is worth all the time and energy put into it. Ryan affirmed that when he told me he was having fun and that he liked to dance to the loud music. I was given affirmation as I watched Ryan and Lilly stand side by side on the stage as brother and sister. I was given affirmation as I watched Archie sway to the beat of the music and smile as his mother and therapists gathered around him for pictures. I was given affirmation as I watch Jennifer hold Evan out so he could receive his medal. I was given affirmation when Grace opened her butterfly and watch in amazement as it fluttered away. I was given affirmation when the countless number of people walked by and told me what a wonderful job we did. I was given affirmation when TK, Monnie and Blake all said let us know if they can help again. I was given affirmation when Michael Boyce told me that he thought there were six to seven hundred people there, maybe more.

The day was filled with moments just like the ones I've describe above. They are gifts and I thank all those that gave them to me.