Just Like The Other Kids

We are members of the William's Syndrome Association, and being part of such an association gives us good access to a community of people from all over the world linked by a common connection. Last night we were privileged to attend one of the annual events that the Northwest Chapter of the WSA hosts. At the KidsQuest Children's Museum in Factoria (which was closed to the general public for this event), families of people with W.S. gathered together to talk, play, and make new acquaintances.
It was our first time to this gathering.
We walked into a room absolutely buzzing with people. People of all ages with William's Syndrome, along with their families.
And I do mean all ages, from a fourteen month old who had a recent diagnosis, to a few adults.
I was amazed and humbled.
And greeted!
Imagine a room full of Henry's (and Henrietta's) approaching you excitedly, asking your name, giving you a hug, and then scampering off to see the rest of the people and the sights.
Imagine parents who had never met before, instantly able to relate, swapping stories that all had a similar theme. Lisa and I had some great conversations with other parents. Some who were new to the William's experience, and others who had been around before there were many resources available.
It was special to see Henry in a room full of people who could understand just how things are.
I saw him greet a girl who was completely similar in mannerisms, enthusiasm, and ability.
It was a moment that I wish I could have captured on video, but was too taken with the moment to realize that I had a camera in my hand.
No special explanations were needed in that room, because Henry was just like all the other kids.
I am so glad we made the effort.
It was a special evening to be remembered.
(And yes, Lisa pointed out that I did not photograph many others with William's. I did not know what the proper etiquette was in that scenario, so I opted just to photo our own boys as usual. In hindsight, I have a feeling that it would have been o.k.)

Oh yes, the ultimate wooden train set.

A view from the indoor treehouse. (This water exhibit side of the building was the most quiet) 

In the South Pacific, watching the adults eat pizza.

 There is a teenage girl who is hiding in that yellow house as part of a big game of Hide-and-Seek that some of the older WS kids were playing. (and now it looks like her hiding spot is no longer a secret)

Not a dull area to be found in the place.

One girl with WS (orange shirt) who had a service dog with her for the kids to pet.

The water boat exhibit. (VERY popular with Hawthorne & November)

We had the play kitchen to ourselves for a bit, so I quietly observed that world of activity. Do you remember it?