March for Babies 2009

Evan's CHARGErs participated in March of Dimes March for Babies for a forth time this year. Unlike the previous two years, it was pretty cold and windy so we took the short course this time--2.5 mile round trip instead of 5. Evan walked part of the way--usually holding on to a hand or two.

Walkers on the team this year were Evan (naturally), Jeremy, me, Grandma and Grandpa Key, Gary and Rosie Nelson, Angela, Connor, and Casey Peters, and several teachers from Valley View Elementary in Toppenish.

Last year, our friend with CHARGE Burke and his mom Chris walked with us also. They were not able to be here this year because Burke just became a big brother to twin boys, Levi and Judah. The twins were born March 14th at 33 weeks gestation. Both boys came home from the hospital a little over 1 week ago, and we walked in honor of Levi and Judah. Grandma and Grandpa Nelson walked last year and came out to walk today.

At the walk, we met another family from Ellensburg who frequently visits Seattle Children's--it's interesting how I found them. A couple of years ago, I made some fleece blankets and donated them to the hospital. Evan had received numerous blankets made by volunteers during his stay, and I wanted to return the favor. This family had one of the blankets I made--I recognized the fabric and asked them about it :) What a small world.

Here are some pictures from the day--Enjoy!


Gary and Rosie (Grandma and Grandpa to Burke and the twins) Nelson


The Peters family on the left (Connor and Casey are under the blanket--it was really cold!). Evan walking between Rosie and daddy.


The Yakima River is behind us...




Left to Right: Grandma and Grandpa Key, Rosie, Gary, Evan, daddy. This was the home stretch (and no, Evan didn't walk the whole way--he had lots of rest breaks in his stroller).




Evan's CHARGErs 2009 Team Photo


Teachers (and their families) from Valley View Elementary in Toppenish (they work with my mom)--there were so many people at the walk, we didn't see them until the end!


This is my new favorite Evan picture. He was playing on the support posts of a picnic shelter, having a great time. Look at that grin!