Animal Print

December 2011

A few weeks after receiving my "birthday party planner" phone call, I got information about our December birthday child.  She was turning ten and loved Justin Bieber and animal print.

In the past, the home provided a cake and $25 gift card for each child.  Whoa! As a mom who loves to do amazing parties for her children, I was heart broken.  I believe that every child should have one special day to celebrate how special they are.  And who needed it more than these children who had been taken away from their "home."  I was inspired. I wanted to show these children how special they are, especially as a child of God.  I was told as a volunteer of the home, I was not to share any "religious views" to any of the children. But, I am convinced that if I am truly expressing my God-given gifts and God is leading me every step of the way, His love will find a way to express itself.

So, I set out on my mission.  I found some cute animal print decor and birthday cake.  My mom and I also went and purchased several gifts for her.  As I'm typing this, it all sounds simple. But let me tell you, when it comes to any kind of party, I obsess over it for weeks up until the minute it begins.  I go over all of the details.  Some might say its over board.  But, I just can't help it.  Is it possible that God instilled this in me? Isn't that what God's dreams are, something that is instilled in you and just wont go away?  At the point I was at, I was sure hoping so!

So, the party day arrived.  We got there way too early and set up everything.  Thankfully, my husband and mother came along to help.  I remember being nervous before the children arrived. I didn't know what to expect.  I had never worked with foster children before.  I prayed that God would calm my nerves and use me to show his love to these precious children.

Finally, the children started to arrive.  They were all very well behaved and had amazing manners.  They were all ages.  Sweet, sweet children.  Of all the things we had at the party, they were most excited about Dr. Pepper. They all sipped away while we waited for the birthday girl to arrive.  Two of her friends from school arrived which was so sweet.  And, as a sibling of 5, all of her brothers and sisters were there as well. Sounds simple, but 2 of them were in different homes because of their special needs. The birthday girl was totally unaware that she was having a birthday party or that her friends and family would be there.

As she walked in the door, her face brought tears to my eyes.  She was so sweet and beautiful and nervously happy.  It touched my heart how loving all of the siblings were to each other.  They couldn't stop hugging each other.  Totally broke my heart. I had to bite my lip several times to keep the tears from flowing.  The birthday girl loves her gifts and the decor, but it was obvious that the most precious gift was her family being together.

I met so many sweet and beautiful children that day that touched my heart.  What a blessing it was to spend time with them.   I was inspired for the next party!