Tis the season!

The holiday season is a busy one but it is full of so many wonderful traditions and events!  All the feel good Christmas movies on TV, the heart warming commercials, upbeat music in the stores and snowflakes falling softly can easily put one in the holiday spirit!

Acts of kindness, especially at this time of year, are something I really love to learn about.  In a busy world where everyone has their own journey, people helping people in big or small ways is amazing.  In the last few weeks I have experienced and read about these gestures and wanted to share.

A few weeks back I took the kids to downtown Toronto.  I was nervous to take them both on the train solo but everything on the way down went pretty smooth.  I had enough snacks and they were excited to be on a train.  After a fun afternoon with their cousins it was time to head home…during rush hour! Snacks were running low, kids were tired and maneuvering around Union Station with a double stroller and crowds was not easy.  We got to one of the platforms for our train but as the train pulled in and opened its doors, I realized we were on the wrong side of the track for the accessibility car and would have to get on board by lifting the stroller with the kids in it (75+ lbs).  As people were loading in and out I took a moment to think about what to do, drag them on or wait for the next train and find a ramp.  All of a sudden a man coming onto the train from the opposite side of the car must have seen my panicked face and quickly jumped down and said “Let me help you! I know how hard these things are to maneuver.”  He lifted the front and we got on the train easily!  I was so relieved that our trip didn’t end in pure chaos and this Mommy was so appreciative!

We have been actively planning fundraising events for the new year and this includes collecting items to be used during these events.  With help from some amazing people (thank you!), we already have some wonderful items (for an idea, please visit our Events page and check out the companies who have donated so far).  Another example of kindness is from a business called Stamped Memories by Amanda.  She makes beautiful custom stamped jewelry and donated a necklace.  As a surprise, she made me my own custom piece.  She said she knows how hard it is for a Mom to see their child struggle and wanted to bring a smile to my face.  She definitely did that!

I love this necklace so much.  Not only does it have my children’s names on it but it was such a kind gesture.  Thank you Amanda!

If you follow our Instagram or Facebook group you know Evelyn received a very special painting from a woman named Kaitlin.  Kaitlin is an adult with left-hemiparetic CP and she has only recently started using her left hand.  She started Kreations by Kittles.   

Kaitlin painted this picture using her left hand for Evie, who has always loved butterflies.  Evie will know it is by someone who is not letting her CP stop her and is giving beauty to this world by both her art and her big heart!!

Lastly, I read this article the other day.   A gentleman from Pickering often pays for the person’s order behind him in line at Tim Horton’s.  A very kind thing to do.  One of the people he bought a coffee for was in a dark place, but receiving this kind gesture changed his whole outlook on life, and essentially saved his life.   You never know what other people are going through and this story truly shows how being kind can make all the difference.

Of course the continuous support we are receiving for Evelyn and her SDR journey never stops amazing our family!  The generosity and love is something we will forever be grateful for and we are so happy to announce we are more than half way to our goal!!  AMAZING!!  Thank you all so much!!

We hope you all enjoy time with loved ones, recharge, share laughs and have fun this holiday season!  From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!! May the new year be Merry and Bright…we know Evelyn’s will be!

All the best in 2018,

Melanie, Brian, Evelyn & Wesley