Live from New York!

A few weeks ago me, Clay, and my dad took off to New York to visit Nickie and Morgan, see the our picture up on the big screen in Times Square, and participate in the NYC Buddy Walk.

We had such an AMAZING weekend!  The weather was perfect, Clay was such a trooper and went with the flow of the day - something my "schedule babies" don't always handle so well!  I felt so blessed to be joined by Nickie, Morgan, and my dad as we spread a little Down syndrome awareness.

My little travel buddy!

Waiting for the ferry to go see aunt Nickie at work

The video screening was at 10 AM in Times Square and we arrived a little early to soak it all in.  As we walked through the area to join the other video watchers, our Clay's superhero shirts received quite a bit of attention!  For those of you who have been to New York City, you know this is kinda a big deal because even the lady wearing a purple wig and a cone bra doesn't get a second look from the locals.

Times Square is loud and there were a ton of people buzzing around - some even dressed in costumes.  Clay was a little apprehensive at first but warmed up a bit with the help of some Goldfish crackers.

A big thanks to Morgan for snapping some great shots! 

We got a lot of this look from the Clay man that day

In Clay's defense, they were a little scary 

When the video began, my eyes immediately filled with tears.  Aw, excitement, joy, proud mama moment....and a flood of memories of the past couple years and our journey into the world of special needs.

My favorite part of the whole Times Square experience was the joy of a boy and his family who were standing next to us.  He was probably 14 or 15 years old and SO handsome.  When his picture came up on the big screen, you would have thought he won the lottery.  Jumping, laughing, screeching with excitement, followed by high fives and fist bumps for anyone in his general vicinity.  

It was awesome.  Pure awesomeness.  

I REALLY hope we get to come back sometime when Clay is older so he can experience that same joy.  Being "different" doesn't always make life easy; getting their moment to shine is so well deserved.

Being a movie star is exhausting

Here is the YouTube version of the video.  Our picture is at 4:30 but you should watch the whole thing.  There are some great facts about Down syndrome and some seriously cute kids spreading awareness!

After the video, we headed to Central Park to do the New York City Buddy Walk.  This is considered the national walk and kicks off Down syndrome awareness month in October.

Go team Clay!

ANOTHER nap for our super Clay

Clay was getting A LOT of attention.  That hair!  That cape!  Sweet boy just wanted to be left alone!

Clay, you are a superhero in my eyes as well as many others.  Your determination, smile, and extra chromosome have rocked our world in a way that we didn't even know was possible.  Thank you for being you and helping me to be a better version of myself.