DreamNight at the Zoo

This past Friday evening, we had the opportunity to go to the Cleveland Zoo for an evening that was just for children with chronic illnesses, disabilities and their families.  It was a great night and they made it so special for these kids.  As we walked in, it was hard for me to hold back the tears as I was amazed at the work that went into preparing this night especially for families like ours who normally have to steer clear of the zoo and places like these due to the big crowds.  The whole night was free and the people were so friendly and accommodating.  They had all the ice cream carts and cotton candy spots open and the kids (and us) could get whatever we wanted for free.  The Dinosaur exhibit, bird feeding, camel rides and train rides were also free.  There were many volunteers around the park doing face painting, crafts, balloon creations, and up close animal encounters.  There were even costumed characters walking around and getting pictures with the kids.    Abbey loved seeing Cinderella and even got her picture taken with her.  She usually likes to keep a pretty safe distance from costumed things, but she was o.k. with the princesses.  Jacob couldn't stop talking about the dinosaurs the whole night and we all enjoyed feeding the birds.  It has been really awesome to see the special things that these kids can be a part of in the midst of what they have to go through.  

And along these same lines, Make a Wish called us the other day to set up a time to come to our home and talk to Abbey about her wish.  More details to come on that, but let's just say she will be able to get her picture taken with all the princesses :)  We also got a call today about an opportunity that Abbey will have to play Kick Ball this summer with the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field to promote an awesome fundraiser for childhood cancers.  More to come on that too :)

Abbey continues to feel great.  Tonight we went to church again and she even went into her class.  There were only a few other kids in there and she really wanted to go in. She was beaming when we picked her up and I think she is loving feeling like a normal kid again.  

Not only is she feeling great, but she looks so healthy.  Her little eyebrows and eyelashes have completely come back in.  It's amazing how fast that has happened and her eyes look more beautiful to me than ever. The hair on her head too is starting to really come in.  Although it has a long way to go, not a day goes by that we don't talk about being able to put it in a pony tail again soon :)

And a quick baby update.... this Monday is our ultrasound so we are very excited to get a peek at this little one and hopefully be able to find out if we will have 3 boys or if Abbey will have a baby sister.  Any guesses??  And if you don't mind, could you please pray that this baby would look healthy and perfect?... Thanks :)  

And one more thing... please keep friends of ours, the Gablers in your prayers as their little boy who is almost two will be undergoing some testing this Monday.  Thanks so much!