New York City

Yesterday morning we drove down to New York City! We came for a Debra fundraising event at MOMA, during which they are honoring families that have adopted children with EB. We walked around a bit yesterday afternoon, and Raul liked seeing all the cars and taxis! Then he started to get fussy while we waited in the lobby to meet some of the other families, and while we had dinner. His legs seem infected, and he was up a lot overnight uncomfortable as well.

This morning my mom took Raul out for a walk while I rested. They went to the Central Park Zoo, and to FAO Shwartz. Raul got a stuffed taxi toy, and they got to ride in a taxi home. Raul is still pretty fussy, so I am hoping he will nap before the event tonight!

Roger Williams Zoo

Today we took Raul to the Roger Williams Zoo for his birthday! We had a lot of fun! Raul loved seeing all the animals, and especially liked the elephants and the seals. He also liked the tortoises, alligator, and some of the birds. Really any of the ones he could see well! We spent a long time watched the elephants get their baths, and then stopped by to see them outside at the end. On our way out we found that they now have an amazing accessible and hands on playground. There were lots of activities children could do, as well as a handicap accessible tree house, and even a wheelchair swing! Raul could definitely have spent a long time there! Then we drove across the park to the carousel, which is one of Raul's favorite things. It was a busy day, but lots of fun!

Raul's Fourth Birthday!

Today is Raul's fourth birthday, and his very first birthday outside of a hospital! Four years ago today Raul was born in rural Romania. Back then, and even the first few months in the U.S., no one thought he would live this long! They actually offered hospice in Colorado. I am so glad we fought for him, as he was just getting started! This boy has more JOY than many healthy kids I know! He is always smiling, laughing, and cracking baby jokes. Doctors often remark that in person he does not appear as he does on paper. He has lengthy lists of medical and developmental issues, but continues to happily defy the odds. Raul amazes us daily, and I can't wait to see what is in store for him!

 

Raul's amazing cake thanks to Icing Smiles and Wild Flour Cake Company!

One of his new train tracks

New Mickey sheets

Even the elephant was made of cake!

Birthday Weekend

Yesterday was my mom's birthday, and tomorrow is Raul's birthday, so we have a big birthday weekend around here! We will be going to the zoo Sunday, and tomorrow having dinner and cake at home. Today Raul got two birthday presents! He got a box from The Butterfly Fund with some Kicky Pants clothes, and a car launcher! He loves it! He also got his copy of Everyone Belongs, a children's book about EB inspired by Raul's friend Ryan! It looks like his birthday was celebrated at school too, as he came home with a birthday crown. I am looking forward to Raul's FIRST birthday outside of the hospital!

Santa's Village

Today Raul finally got the adventure he had been waiting for: Santa's Village! He was so excited as soon as we drove up. He had a great day, and wanted to go on all the rides. We also got to visit Santa twice! His favorite ride still seemed to be the kids only spinning swing thing, but the boat was a close second. He got a reindeer stuffed animal to bring home, which he is now very attached to!