Trust, Laughter, And Friendship

Yesterday was a day full of not only sunshine, but the "son" shining within.

Kids arrived by car and bus loads from the east, west, north and south of our little town. One guy said it was a 2 1/2 hours drive from the city of Chicago, but he was bound to make the trip for his son.

Some of the kids were happy to sit back, enjoy the music and relax

Others waited patiently for their turn on the boat, jet skis or one of the other water activities

Initially there was fear with some, until gradually they began to trust.
While others couldn't wait to get into the water, such as this sweet boy. He simply enjoyed feeling and splashing the water. It brought a grin to his face as wide as the Mississippi River.

He also enjoyed a quiet moment with his dad.

Some made new friends along the way

Some came with friends

This little stinker, on the left would played games with the camera. When I tried to take a picture he would turn away, as soon as I would pull the camera away from my face, he would look at me smiling and laughing. This went on for a bit, but I finally was able to capture his wonderful smile.

This is Tom (the founder of Dreams for Kids and author of the book I shared yesterday), sharing a moment with one of the kids. On a few occasions yesterday I had the chance to talk with Tom. He is truly an amazing man with a heart so big. My dear friends if you have a chance to read his book "Kiss of a Dolphin" or if you are lucky enough to hear him share some of his precious moments with the kids, you won't be sorry.

The day left me filled with so many emotions, to see kids and adults of all ages volunteering for this day, to give others a day to remember. In my eyes it was a win, win day. I even learned a couple of things too.

While sitting back taking it all in, I spotted this empty chair. It added a smile to my face to know that the owner of this chair was in the water having fun like any other child.

...And then I looked up to see this little princess being carried out of the water and it made me laugh and clap with joy. Don't you just love the expression on her face?! Oh and the handsome dude in the green shirt is my love, the G man.

My dear friends, I hope your weekend is a golden one and full of special moments!

There are no great things, only small things with great love. Happy are those.

Mother Teresa

xoxo