Kindred Spirits, Phia and Austin

"You're visiting Seattle?  This is our home state. Wow...would love to meet your daughter, we have never met anyone with Austin's syndrome before." =)

This was the message in my inbox after posting a few Seattle landmarks on my Facebook page, while on our Spring Break vacation!  Such a fun surprise after we tried to meet another family but were unable to arrange a time.

"We are staying in Mukilteo...how close are you?  We leave Friday but have some flexibility. We tried to meet another family but it hasn't worked out. We haven't met anyone in person, either!" My response within a few minutes after receiving her message.

How exciting is this.  Hoping to meet another family has been a dream to us.  Living with WHS AND living in Montana hasn't given us the opportunity to share in this way.  We've depended on social media, online, since Phia's diagnosis.  This was worth changing plans and making time for.   A dream come true for our families.  Truly exciting.

A few more texts and we were able to pinpoint a time and we were on our way!

As I walked through the door, Val reached out her hand for a greeting and I couldn't help but embrace her. Another Mom, acquainted with the journey of living with WHS... in the flesh. (Somewhat like pinching yourself when you think you are dreaming but find out your not!)  This was happening, really happening.

Then came her children, bouncing to greet us with a hello.  Austin was bashful and in the background taking it all in.  Reserved but with a smile that melted my heart.  A few moments passed as we were all talking and greeting one another.  Then the wave emotion hit me.  Austin was so similar to Phia.  His mannerisms the same.  WOW, another kiddo like mine! Tears of joy and relief as I witnessed another miracle before my eyes.  (Here's a pic to show what I am describing in these two.)  It didn't take long to be comfortable. *Smile*

The time we had together was full of embracing our likenesses and capturing as much on camera as possible. We had a short time to simply smile and express gratefulness.  It was perfect!  I'll let the pictures speak for themselves...

 

Later, that same day, as we were sharing photo's and texting, Val wrote, "seriously, how cute are these two? So many similarities!  The best smiles!"

Yes, seriously, kindred spirits.  The best smiles that leave us smiling until we see each other, again.

 

Thanks to Val, for reaching out and making this happen.  Looking forward to growing together in this amazing friendship.  Truly exciting and blessed.