CASA Christmas Party

Well this one’s a tricky post, since most of the pics include the twins. But I will share anyway, because it was a large part of our weekend.  The best part about this event is how inclusive it is. It is a whole family event. There is no distinction between foster kids and adoptive kids and bio kids. It’s just for the family. I loved seeing my children ministered to and loved on by this organization. Biological children in foster families make sacrifices too, and no one is calling them “a saint” or praising them for the love they freely give, the second hand trauma they endure daily, the bedrooms, clothes, or toys they share, the grief they experience, connection and attachments they form, or the attention of their parents that they sacrifice. It is just part of our lives, and they live it all, highs and lows.  It was so good for them to feel celebrated and included in a party, because they are a part of being a foster fanily in big ways. 

This party was 3 hours of unlimited fun at fast lanes. Everyone was given a little swipe card. Everyone visited Santa. No one asked who was a foster child. They just treated families like families. And they treated us so well. 

Haha Sloane was NOT a fan of the family bumper cars. The twins, however, loved the thrill of it all! We expected to last 30 minutes in that loud crowded place full of flashing lights and places to get lost. Not so! We were shocked. They stayed in a state of insanely happy sensory satisfaction the whole time. All the things to touch, lights to stare at, rides to go on...all of it was totally perfect for them, surprisingly.  

They begged to ride the kiddie coaster. I was hesitant but finally just said yes. Surprise again! Pure joy! No tears! They climbed aboard and smiled and squealed the whole time. So much fun. And what a nice surprise  for our fanily to just go somewhere and have fun and not leave in a parade of tears or tantrums. Also, the crowd was all people who totally “get it”  and have similar concerns. So it was all just very supportive and good. 

Thank you casa for a fun day! #bigfamilyproblems for us to go on one of these rides as a family a $45 expense. Unlimited thrills for hours was quite a gift! Bowling and laser tag and rides and a huge play structure and pizza and games galore. We are so grateful.