Best "Buddies"

I LOVE this picture! This is Cadence with his best "buddy" Jaemen. They play together often and love each other very much! Just like last year, we have formed our Buddy Walk team with Jaemen's family. Our team is called "Cadence and Jaemen's Friends". Our goal is to have the most walkers and raise the most money. I usually hate asking for people to donating money, whatever the cause, but for this particular cause, I don't mind! The Colorado Springs Down Syndrome Association has been a blessing to our family as well as many others here in the Springs. Every year, each family is alotted $2100 to use in several different areas- Education, Recreation & Medical. They also have scholarships for graduates and adults. We have taken advantage of these and appreciate them very much. In fact, the Down Syndrome Association just paid for several months worth of Cadence's private preschool at Hope Montessori, where he is currently attending! In the past, they have also paid for Kindermusik, My Gym, therapy aides and more! It is so awesome to have this and it's nice to actually see where your money goes. The CSDSA also put on wonderful Christmas parties, Halloween parties, Picnics, luncheons and offers so much support to its families. All of this is made possible from the money raised from the Buddy Walk. So come and join our team! Or, if you would like to help volunteer at the event, I am also the Volunteer Coordinator for the second year in a row and can set you up with a fullfilling job!

The Buddy Walk is THE BEST walk in the Springs (no bias here, I swear). Lots of food, music, prizes and sun in beautiful Manitou Springs! Hope to see you there!

A Special Child

by Sharon Harris

You weren't like other children,

And God was well aware,

You'd need a caring family,

With love enough to share.

And so He sent you to us,

And much to our surprise,

You haven't been a challenge,

But a blessing in disguise.

Your winning smiles and laughter,

The pleasures you impart,

Far outweigh your special needs,

And melt the coldest heart.

We're proud that we've been chosen,

To help you learn and grow,

The job that you have brought us,

Is more than you can know.

A precious gift from Heaven,

A treasure from above,

A child who's taught us many things,

But most of all-"Real Love”