"We're depending on God; he's everything we need. What's more, our hearts burn with joy since we'v taken for our own His Holy Name."
Psalm 33:20-21
This weekend, Cooper and I were invited to attend a retreat for families with special needs children. It was such a neat time! We met a community of people who come from all walks of life, yet are joined by the common bond of their very special children. The verse above was the theme for the retreat and I was encouraged deeply by the reminder of my dependence on the Lord for simply everything!
The retreat was wonderful and relaxing. We had plenty of activities to keep us busy - they had lined up a series of play therapies for families to enjoy together. My favorite was the country western dance on Friday night (hence the cowboy hat you'll see in several photos!) A dance instructor from a local school came to teach the 15 families how to 2 step and do the boot-scootin' boogie. This guy was a trooper - he yelled the instructions over lots of noise and managed to get the wheelchairs rollin' to the beat! It was a blast!
This was music therapy class - Cooper did SO well and I was surprised at how well he responded to the teacher. He was eager to participate in every song and dance. These were the "strings on a stick" as Cooper called them!
Art therapy was so neat as well - the kids painted a clear vinyl sheet on both sides and it will later be turned into a work of art to be displayed at the church.
"I can see you, Mom!"
Even though it rained nearly the entire weekend, we still got outside and played! Cooper LOVED this little tricycle he found on the property and we rode bikes despite the rain!
I was so thankful that Cooper made a friend! This little guy has just as much energy as Cooper does and they played well together. I am so glad that Coop had the opportunity to interact with a child his age in a positive way. It made him feel so proud that he was a good friend!
Guess what Cooper did for the first time?
Thie biggest feat wasn't getting on the horse - it was wearing the helmet! When we were at Pine Cove this summer, Cooper simply refused to wear a helmet or life jacket. I was so sad for him that he didn't get to ride horses or boats - but he couldn't make himself do it. I was one proud mom when he said, "Mommy, I will be brave and wear the helmet!" : )
As we walk through understanding Cooper's special needs, I am thankful that Jesus is everything I need every day. He knows Cooper inside and out and created him as he is. What a neat weekend to focus on the wonderful gifts God has given us in our special kids!
We're depending on God; he's everything we need!
My sweet neighbor, Summer, offered us 2 free race packets since her daughters opted to go hunting with their daddy rather than walk. Summer and I spend a lot of time visiting on our driveways as the kids play, but it was nice to have uninterruped time to chat with her while we walked.
Summer and Jacob
Buddies!
