- The presence of an extra 21st chromosome does not define who you are. People with DS have 46 other chromosomes shaping their personality. Please don't stereotype.
- Don't assume that someone with DS won't understand something, or that they can't do something. Assume they CAN.
- People with DS are more like everyone else than different. Treat them as you would want to be treated.
As the years go by, I am sure I will add more and more bullets to this list. For now, all that I ask is that you treat Colden as if he was any other kid. And let me tell you, he will surprise you.
Down Syndrome awareness month is nationally recognized with two different walks: the Buddy Walk, and the Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, the latter of which is offered in our area. Last year, I wrote a post all about how nervous I was to take my 5-month-old to a walk on a topic I knew very little about. I was terrified of seeing an 'army of Down Syndrome' as I referred to it then. Thankfully, we went, had a super rad time, and vowed to make it an annual family tradition every year thereafter. This year we were ready. This year we knew a thing or two about DS. This year we were loud and proud.
Enter: COLDEN'S CREW & EVIE'S ENTOURAGE
Our closet friends and family came out in droves to support Colden and Evie (in case you didn't know our 18-month-old already has a girlfriend; and yes, they are betrothed). With the sun shining two years in a row, we were like old pros posting up at Coca Colden field (the same locale of Colden's first birthday party). It was only icing on the cake that we looked super hip in the Prop t-shirts Matt designed in a matching grey hue. Our whole crew was rearing to go.
What followed was a one mile walk, and an explosion of picture taking. Here's a little photo tour of the day, and all of the people that love Colden. We couldn't have asked for a better day, or a better crew to share it with.
Super proud parents and the littlest of honorees.
This walk's just for me?? You da best Mommy and Daddy!
Getting some love from Grandma and Grandpa.
What's that cool breeze? I'm looking for Evie, Grandma. You see my partner in crime anywhere? There she is!
Why do they keep taking our picture Colden? I'm gonna make a silly face on purpose. PS: I really dig your shirt.
High Five, Auntie Rachie!
The youngest crew member. Nice shades, Grey.
Big smiles.
Off we go!
And some one's tired already....
Prop spotting.
Hi Grandma!
Making our way towards the water..
The mamas find each other.
Elisa only scowls when you try to take her picture. The rest of the time she sports a grin and the sweetest dimple.
Heading back towards the ballpark.
The star of the day.
Attempting a group baby shot. Clearly they're all in the mood to cooperate.
Those are my blueberries, E....here have my hat instead.
Sweet Andrew. This boy loves Colden so much.
And we just adore him. Look at that smile!
The Farina fan club. I foresee babysitting in these girls' future...
What a terrific day. Thanks to everyone who came out to raise awareness of how awesome it is to have Down Syndrome.
You are one loved little boy, Colden. And we are one lucky set of parents.
Until next year...
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