There's this...

Down Syndrome Awareness continues. I will be hitting the pavement heavy with some posts that will have you thinking...I hope!!!

Looking at these photos reminded me of a poem that Pip gave to us a few days after Hazel was born. When I read it then, I got through 4 lines and was crying so hard that I couldn't see through my tears. Not tears of sadness and grief. Tears of pride and honour that our little girl had finally joined us. Hazel Loretta had arrived.

When I read it now my chest puffs out just a little bit, and the smile can barely be contained on my face. As a mother, this poem is what I want you to know about my daughter. Not only that she has Down Syndrome, but that this is what it means for her. It does not define her. It is a part of her. Hazel is a baby that happens to have Down Syndrome.

We are at the beginning of our journey, and already she has enriched aspects of so many people's lives. I see how they look at her. I see what happens when she stands for them, dances for them, talks to them, smiles for them, and leans her head down on their shoulder just to be closer.

It is pure joy!

They are amazed. They are not judging. They are full of love. They accept her for who she is.

I have never seen anything like it. My heart bursts with love, it almost feels like it might break, when I see that these looks of pride, joy and unconditional love are targeted at OUR little girl.

Here is the poem that I love so much. Remember to keep the conversation about Down Syndrome, and other special needs, a topic of conversation in your daily lives (at least for this month).

The only way we can fully accept something, is if we educate ourselves on the topic. Thanks everyone your support is insurmountable!

The Creed of Babies with Down Syndrome

My face might be different But my feelings the same I laugh and I cry And I take pride in my gains

I was sent here among you To teach you to love As god in the heavens Looks down from above

To him I’m no different His love knows no bounds It’s those here among you In cities and towns

That judge me by standards That man has imparted But thus family I’ve chosen Will help me get started

For I’m one of the children So special and few That came here to learn The same lessons as you

That love and acceptance It must come from the heart We have have the same purpose Though not the same start

The Lord gave me life To live and embrace And I’ll do as you do But at my own pace