My family and I walked for the 9th time in Phoenix on Saturday, April 8th. The weather was perfect! It is so nice to see so many families, supporters, and volunteers out and up very early supporting a wonderful cause. We arrived a little after the walk started as we sometimes do. I still get nervous the night before and the morning of this event. While it is something I do look forward to, I also rationalize ways of getting out of it. It is another day where I have to face the pain and miracles in my life. Of course, I'm always proud to follow through and then relieved that it's over. I did not have walk shirts made. I was back and forth on that. When we decided to do the Lego Batman minifigures as our fundraiser, I looked for some shirts and decided to just pin something to the back. I was not sure how that would look. I knew the boys would want to wear their shirts out and about again while they still fit, but probably without info on the back. So, I printed out signs, shoved them in page protectors, and just taped them. I'm happy to report that it worked for the most part.
We were so surprised to see both Batman and Batgirl at the walk! Seriously, that was such an awesome idea and as we approached with our Joker t-shirts, it was too perfect! There were interactive things to do along the walk route and we took as many breaks as we needed to. T usually just stops and sits down somewhere to let us know that he needs a rest. There is that final turn towards the finish line and a nice grassy area that hosts the Memory Garden. The boys and hubby made their way to some of the activities and information booths while I headed toward the section no parent should ever be in. I searched for Naethyn's flower. I was looking right and left and towards the back, but this year, he was right up front. I added another sticker to it, held back tears, and took a few pics. When I turned to find my family, D was happily playing bean bag toss with his bro. To think they almost didn't make it either and are only here because I had a scheduled appointment with a concerned OB.
Walking toward the starting line
My guys
Very cool!
Batman For Babies - "Prematurity is NO joke!"
You keep giving me strength to see days like this one.
Hugs to you and your sweet family. The walk is definitely a bittersweet day but so glad your family was able to participate. I am looking forward to ours this coming weekend as well but am filled with some anxiety. I love your shirts. So glad to call you my friend.
ohhh what a beautiful day and beautiful way to honor all three of your boys and their stories! Thank you for sharing your day with us and I love the pictures! Thank you for all you do! I <3 you!
Much Love
Samantha
Many hugs to you, Lindsay. I, too, have the same feeling on walk day... wishing I wasn't there, being proud to be their honoring my sons' memory, and relief and sadness when it is done.
Love the shirts!
Erin
Love your pictures! Looks like it was a great day for a walk to honor your little guys!