11.06.2011

Children a Plenty

If we are lucky, and play our cards right, sometimes we are privileged enough to have those special moments in our lives that change us forever.  Yesterday, my husband and I were blessed to have one of those "moments".  We were able to volunteer at the annual "Angel Party" which is sponsored by the American Society of Sao Paulo, among others.  230 or so orphans were given a day that will not soon be forgotten - by them, or anyone present.  Shows were performed, games were played, and prizes were given, all in honor of these sweet, and deserving children...
I was asked to help with the photography which was the most amazing job I could ever have hoped for!  Looking for and capturing those special moments of spontaneous joy in children.. is there a better job in the world?  I think not.  These posted are just a sampling of the pictures I was able to take:
There were sports to try - some with the aid of pro athletes which was so fun for the them!  These guys were great with the kids. :)
Even my sweet hubby was assigned to man one of the "American Football" booths - reliving his glory days with a bunch of amazing kids?  I don't think he minded one bit!  (He's the cute one in the blue polo by the way..)
There were carnival type games in the gym where the kids could win prizes.
Face painting, manicures, arts and crafts - you name it - these kids deserve it above all others, and FINALLY, got it!
With other sponsors such as Haagan Dazs, Nestle & Habib's (pizza), the kids didn't go hungry either!  There was PLENTY of food to go around! :)
All tuckered out after a long day and a full tummy! :)
It amazes me how some of these youth have gone through so much of their lives without a place to truly call "home".. a luxury I have taken for granted all my life.
Each color shirt represented a different orphanage home.
Brazil even has its own "Beiber" :)  The kids didn't care that it wasn't the real deal.. they LOVED it!!!
The best part of the day?  Without a doubt it was when the kids each recieved their gifts from Santa.  Each child had a sponsor that purchased a backpack, a pair of shoes, socks, underwear, a new outfit and a toy... I've never seen such immense happiness!  It was all I could do to keep my emotions in check until we left the venue:
A day I shall never forget.  Full of joy in its purest form, and children with smiling faces - they way they ought to be.  In a perfect world, it would have ended with a new mom and dad to take each one of these precious children of God home, and love them the way every child is meant to be loved.  I pray that I will never be the same again.

7 comments:

  1. How beautiful - and great pictures! Love the one of the girl hugging the stuffed animal. I'm sure the children felt very loved; it'll certainly be a warm memory for them for a long time!

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  2. What a wonderful day. It looks like so many lives were touched!

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  3. It was a fantastic day! I am so blessed to have been a part of it!

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  4. Your photography is getting much better! Thanks for sharing...I love reading your blog

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  5. This post brought a smile and a few tears. The one picture of the little guy sleeping reminded me of Jeremy when we first adopted him. A night of peaceful sleep with no worries was a long time coming.

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  6. Thanks Molly :) I couldn't have had cuter subjects to photograph! And Michelle - I am SURE this was a relatable post for you.. what precious memories you must have! :)

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  7. That is awesome that you were able to participate in something like that. Such a great service to be able to do.

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