Entertaining Friends

Almost a year ago we met in person for the first time friends we'd followed via our blogs for years after meeting online during our adoption of Lauren and their adoption of Teresa.  We followed as the kids progressed in their adjustments to their new families and all the trials and triumphs that go with this.  We were particularly concerned as the Bartlinski's sought to bring health and wholeness to their youngest treasure who was challenged from the beginning of life with heart and lung problems.  We celebrated her milestones, prayed along with SO MANY others as she faced her greatest challenge of a heart transplant that would ultimately take Teresa out of this world and into the arms of her savior to wait for her loving family to join her in heaven.  While reeling from this incredible loss, a group that helps grieving families made arrangements for their return to Teresa's favorite place with all the princesses that she so loved - Disney.  It was there we met them in person for the first time.  I wrote about that in this blog post: New Friends and Celebrating Life. We met for lunch on a couple other occasions after this initial meeting and have continued to follow and dialog via the Internet and emails.

At Disney, we're all sporting our Got Love T shirts that are part of a fundraiser for the Love You More Heart Home in Teresa's honor.  And of course we all have our princess tiaras on that were a favorite part of Teresa's fashion style.

Yesterday, we were thrilled to be able to visit again as they spend time in Florida with their girls. While Grace, their 15 year old had to stay and babysit the new puppy at the condo, the rest of the girls along with Ann and Ed joined us for lunch.  It was so much fun visiting with them.  Hannah and Lauren absolutely loved having so many playmates to share their time and toys with.

Mary visiting with Bear, who loved all the extra attention he got!

Ann with Mary and Gemma

Ed, Mary, Ann and Gemma

Playing Wii, with Lauren and Lucy "boxing", while Hannah, Emilia, and Gemma cheer them on.

I was so busy talking and visiting I almost forgot to take photos, but I did manage to get some to share by the time we had desert and the kids were playing with the Wii or visiting with the dogs, just before the Bartlinski's had to leave.

Bear and Bea quite happy with all the extra attention.

Gemma giving Hannah a hug good bye

Gemma seeing who's taller between she and Lauren- so cute.

As they all head back to their van it was time to say goodbye and bring an end to a wonderful visit.

We will make a trip down near Orlando to visit with them again, before they need to leave for home. The time always flies when we get together.  Absolutely agree with Ann that I wished we lived closer to each other!!

If you haven't met this wonderful family, I invite you to check out their Blog here: Our Place Called Home

Looking forward to seeing them again soon, and hopefully I'll remember my camera sooner!!