Saturday, May 30, 2009

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!  

12 comments:

Bethany said...

What a great experience you had at the zoo! It is awesome that you have these opportunities with your family after beeing cooped up for the past few months. I'm excited to hear more about your make-a-wish trip. Your family is going to have a wonderful time!!!

Kelly Hunt said...

I'm thinking girl- I wouldn't be surprised if you guys had boy, girl, boy, girl!! Can't wait to hear, super excited!!!

G Family said...

SO many exciting things in store for your family! I think boy/girl/boy ..girl would be pretty cool, also!
Praying for you all and excited to hear about Colbert #4!

Unknown said...

That looks like so much fun. I'm putting in my guess that you're having a girl. :o)

dana said...

What amazing days you are having...I'm so thankful! Abbey looks wonderful and I'm so thrilled that you are able to enjoy family time doing normal things.

Have fun with the Make A Wish...it's awesome!!!! Enjoy!

Thinking of you much...

~ Dana

Anonymous said...

So happy for you guys!!! Congrats on baby #4 ... I'm thinking it's a girl :) We'll be praying for your ultrasound and your pregnancy. God is good!
Sarah Osthaus

Bearess said...

Wow. What an awesome thing!! It looks like all 3 of them had a great time. I *love* that pic of Micah looking at the birdie. So cute!

God bless. I'm praying for all of you -- and your new little one! :)

Andy Gammons said...

Three boys and a girl rules! I am so glad to hear how God is ministering to you through strangers during this time. What an obvious demonstration of His love for you. Thanks for continuing to share.

Andy

Beth said...

Love the Cleveland Zoo! I had no idea that they did that, but what a blessing for you all!! That is just awesome!!

Ohhhhhhh....I can't wait to hear about Abbey's wish!! If you are going where I think you are going, you will have a BLAST!!

Sounds like there is a lot to be grateful for!! Eyelashes, wishes, free train rides, and a happy little girl!! We will continue to pray for Miss Abbey!!

And my guess is girl. Have a great time at your ultrasound! Praying for wonderful results!!

:)

LucieP said...

your babies are so beautiful!

My aunt was just diagnosed with AML in early May...just dc'd from her first hospital stay of 21 days...about to receive her 4th bone marrow biopsy to see if more cells are gone...

I will say a prayer for you!!!!

Mel Avila Alarilla said...

I featured Abby and Kevin at my blog - Random Thoughts- International Blog. Please visit my site to see the feature. Thank you and God bless you all.

Danyele Easterhaus said...

joining in as a prayer partner with u guys!!! and what a super night at the zoo! awesome!