Long Overdue

May 24th Gabe had an appointment at Shriner's Hospital in Minneapolis. It's about a 5.5 hour drive from our house to Minneapolis but with a little munchkin and stops for meals we made it in about 7 hours. Craig and Julie let us borrow their mini van, which revolutionized the travel experience.

Our first lunch stop, a road side picnic.

During some desperate moments we were able to put in a video to entertain Gabe. If you look closely you can see this is a Sleepytime video - it didn't work.

Fighting sleep became Gabe's new MO. He much preferred climbing back and forth over the desk rail.

In the morning he liked to crawl into bed with daddy, have a bottle and watch some Sports Center. Feeding himself and using a sippy cup Gabe has mastered, but holding his own bottle-he just can't be bothered.

While in Minneapolis we were able to visit our friends, Lisa and Brian Duensing, who treated us to a Twins game. Our little trooper stayed the entire game, he even took a small nap in his daddy's arms.

Somehow I managed to take only ONE picture at the hospital...

We arrived at 8:30 and sorted through our paperwork. Soon after Gabe was taken for x-rays, then his exam. The staff were kind and attentive, we felt very well cared for and loved. Before we left we had seen 6 medical professionals and been sized for Gabe's new braces. They didn't have his in stock but assured us they would expedite the shipment directly to our home.

Having had no experience with the Shriner's beforehand Andy and I were not sure what to expect. But, without a doubt, this was one of the biggest blessings we've encountered. The braces Gabe needed are not cheap, and when we applied to Shriner's we were prepared to foot some costs-Shriner's took care of EVERYTHING! Gas, lodging, and ALL medical costs. I left the appointment with tears of gratitude and had to restrain myself from hugging any and all staff members I saw on the way out.

I assume most parents can relate to this experience, someone you don't know loves your child well. It's humbling, energizing, and basically made me a great big love bug with a cheesy smile.

Gabe felt like a big deal when we left, after having MVP treatment he expected the same from his parents.

By Tuesday the new shoes had arrived!