BUDDY WALK 2009...

Yesterday was the 2009 annual Buddy Walk. I just want to start by thanking everyone for their support. When Israel first came into our lives, we had no idea what to expect. We are constantly overwhelmed with the love and support we get from our family and friends. We wouldn't be where we are today without all of you. THANK YOU! With that said, what a fantastic turnout we had yesterday! Such a great day! The walk started out with a carnival for the kids. It had lots of games, prizes, face painting balloon making, nail painting, fishing, and bounce houses. The kids got lots and lots of stuff. Maddi even won a stuffed character from BARNEY for Israel. Then we lined up for the walk. It took a little time to get started, but it gave us an opportunity to get a picture. Mom stayed up top and Jeri waited for her. Nikolas decided last minute he wasn't feeling up to the walk so they all cheered us on from the top. They aren't in the picture. We also had many supporters who weren't able to make it, but were there in spirit. We missed you guys! After the walk we lined up for about 42 hours waiting for our lunch. OK, I exaggerated a little, but it was a very long wait. We finally got to eat our Red Robin catered hamburgers. So yummy! They had each of the parents fill out a bio on all the DS kids. They read them and had them run the bases and at home plate got a medal for being a vip from a beauty queen. So adorable! Israel loved it! All the DS kids did! Then they honored all the mom's and the grandma's of the DS kids. Pretty cute! We got a nice little pearl necklace! After that they held a raffle! Team Izzy's Ohana with the generous donations of our friends and family raised a total of $22o. Our goal was $200. So thank you everyone! We also had about 60 team members! As a total for the UDSF and the walk, yesterday we raised over $13, 000.

BEWARE! LONG SIDESHOW...BUT WORTH IT ;)