We Can Do This

I'll admit that, for me, it does get a little scarier each day, but as we get closer to the arrival of Gracie, it becomes more and more obvious that we are perfect for the job.  Its almost spooky how everything has pointed us in this direction.  As a special education teacher, Carrie has spent a lot of time with children who have Down Syndrome.  The first few years that I knew her (until Lylli was born), she would spend the week after school got out as part of the professional team at a camp, in northern MN, specifically for teens and young adults with Down Syndrome.  Five years ago, her good friend and co-teacher, Tracy, had a son with Down Syndrome -- They found out that Will had it the day he was born and we watched as the short period of time following his diagnosis went from fear and shock to happiness and joy - Tracy is now the head of a group for parents of children with Down Syndrome and has paved our way.  She is always there when needed -- and guess what?  The parent group meets right at Carrie's school.  We have had kids with down syndrome in our home for extended periods of time and even considered adoption/fostering.  I cannot tell you how many times prior to Gracie's diagnosis that I had seen Carrie looking at Reece's rainbow website (A site dedicated to adopting children with Down Syndrome from other countries).  And to top it all off, last fall Carrie graduated with her Masters in Early Childhood special education -- which means from birth on.    I'll admit, this whole thing scares the heck out of me, but if I have to go on this journey, I can't think of a better partner to have.  I see how wonderful of a mommy that she is to Lylli and am certain that when Gracie arrives, as long as Carrie is there to help me out, she is going to be in great hands.        

 

I am humbled by all of our family and friends that have been here to support us as we prepare for Gracie's arrival.  We have so much to be thankful for!