Twas the night before Christmas...

I've mentioned our friends at Pufferbellies Toys several times. They have been an encouragement to us as a family since they opened their doors. As well, without any real explanation from us, Susan and Erin Blanton were willing to donate to Hope Foundation,and follow Aiden's progress during intensive.

Unfortunately, with the busyness of this time of the year, Aiden and I had not been in the shop since we returned from our adventure in physical therapy. So on the 24th of December (thus the title:) all of us headed downtown. We didn't have any real shopping to do. It just seemed important to see the ladies at Pufferbellies.

It is always a treat to visit because there is such an air of love for both children and the toy business. The store is packed with great games, toys that encourage imagination, old favorites and books to entice even the most uninterested reader. There is a train table, a library nook, art and craft supplies, legos, playmobil and dollies. (Can you tell that I love this store?!!) And this year, the windows are so enchanting. I was raised on the windows at Miller and Rhodes and Thalhiemers in Richmond. Not quite Macy's in NY, but in my mind, close!!

We walked in with all of the kids and were greeted by the ladies behind the counter. Whether they know us by name I'm not sure, but they welcomed us graciously. Aiden and I walked to the back to see the train table. A former Lee High student (I am so sorry to
have forgotten her name because she is so sweet) hugged me and let me know how wonderful Aiden seemed to be doing. She must have gone to get Susan because she came out of the office to see us.

Susan watched as Aiden played and walked around the table. He was doing his best to set little wooden cars on the track while keeping his balance. I think that she was impressed with the improvement that she saw in Aiden.

Erin met us as Aiden was heading up the ramp (towards the front door!!). She sat down with us as Aiden grabbed her thumb and walked up the ramp. He pulled her to go with him. With a great feeling of gratefulness I watched my son. He was working so hard to have some independence.

Erin and I stood up to accommodate Aiden's trek to the front door. I caught her eye as we moved forward. As I have been in the past, she was moved to tears. I don't know if it was because of the sheer effort that Aiden was exerting; more likely it was wonder at his determination, joy in his accomplishment, and maybe a little sadness that it seems so difficult. I am continually amazed at the range of emotions that run through me at such times. I could only reach forward and hug Erin. No words (except, "don't you do this!") would have been truly appropriate.

We left shortly after this encounter. The store was closing early and Aiden was ready for a nap. I was glad that we had stopped by. As we were driving out of the parking lot I watched Susan take in the giraffe and the open sign down. I mentioned that I was glad that we had stopped in. Dave said, "As I was walking out Susan stopped me. She said that bringing Aiden had really made their Christmas." What a blessing that we have such encouragement in our lives.

Thank you to all who are doing their best to encourage our family or other families like ours. Your love and support are truly appreciated, even if you are not thanked enough. We appreciate your prayers and would continue to ask you to lift us to the Lord.

Blessings to all,

Christa