Saturday was a big day in our zoo--it was the first annual appearance of Roo's Crew at our local Buddy Walk! Here we are, in all our glory...
Last year I was aware of the walk, but I just wasn't quite there yet. I had a feeling that the people at the walk would be... well... happy. And I really wasn't that. At all.
But this year was a different story. I was excited--and still a little nervous. I was ready, as much as I ever would be. And I wanted to feel a little more connected to families like ours. And so, Roo's Crew was formed.
We set out to the walk not knowing what to expect, not knowing if this would be a one-time thing or an annual event for us. Let me tell you, we will be there again next year without a doubt--only next time, we'll have our own team shirts. :-)
We arrived a little later than planned, but I really didn't think there would be that many people there, so it shouldn't be too crowded, right? Wow, was I wrong! There were around 5,000 people walking this year! 5,000!!!! I could hardly stop crying for the first half-hour we were there, just seeing all these wonderful families coming together to celebrate our "buddies" with Down syndrome. I have to admit, lately I've been feeling a little bit isolated, a little alone on our journey, and it was so nice to see all these families and feel like we really belonged.
The event was well-organized and went great. The weather was nice, the activities were great, the people were friendly. I can't say enough good about it.
We arrived a little later than planned, but I really didn't think there would be that many people there, so it shouldn't be too crowded, right? Wow, was I wrong! There were around 5,000 people walking this year! 5,000!!!! I could hardly stop crying for the first half-hour we were there, just seeing all these wonderful families coming together to celebrate our "buddies" with Down syndrome. I have to admit, lately I've been feeling a little bit isolated, a little alone on our journey, and it was so nice to see all these families and feel like we really belonged.
The event was well-organized and went great. The weather was nice, the activities were great, the people were friendly. I can't say enough good about it.
Here are a few of my favorite shots from the walk. I took them all with my iPhone, so I can't say they are fabulous quality, but you'll get the idea. Enjoy! :-)
Me & my buddy! ;-)
My attempt to get a shot of the crowd--there were about 5,000 people there! It was unbelievable!!!
We're walking! :-)
Lamb & her Nana
Roo with Papa
This band was a great encouragement along the walk--and the two boys in front both have DS.
Walking out onto the field at Progressive Field! :-)
The kids LOVED getting to sit in the dugout. :-)
All of the "buddies"--those with DS--got a medal as they approached home plate. It was so cool!
And after the walk, there were tons of family-friendly activities. The big kids very much enjoyed the bubble machines!
Lamb getting her hair sprayed...
Face painting--for some reason, she decided she wanted different color polka dots all over her face. I have no idea where that idea came from, but it turned out cute...
Monkey got his face painted, too, and he went with a timeless favorite...
BATMAN!
And once again, our favorite Buddy of the day. He had a great time, and I can't wait to take him back next year. :-)
To those of you who provided support for our team, THANK YOU! I feel so blessed to have been a part of the walk, and especially to feel the love from each person who was a part of our team, whether in walking or by donation. Thank you again!
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