If you have read previous entries you know that we have a babysitter who we adore named Whitney. She happens to be a student at NC State (we try not to hold it against her). She also happens to be dating a wide receiver for the football team (#80 Mr. Bryan - as Chase refers to him). Last year, Whitney and Bryan were gracious enough to allow Chase and I to come to a game and sit in the family and friends section. We literally sat first row behind the visiting team and Chase was mesmerized - especially when Bryan came to give him a high five before the game started. Over the course of the year, Whitney and Bryan have become members of our family. We have them over for dinner around the holidays, we celebrate accomplishments and special occasions together and we remind our kids how lucky they are to have such special people in their lives.
Fast forward one year and Chase was going to the home opener with Whitney, her mom and Bryan's family. Of course, he didn't know this. Why? Because you don't tell a child anything you don't want to hear about incessantly until it is time for them to actually attend the event. Whitney showed up Saturday morning to take Chase and it was on! I got a phone call from a very excited little boy on his way to watch the Walk of Champions and see Bryan before the game started. He sat through the entire game and even some of the post-game activities while waiting for Bryan to finish for the day. It was a 12:30 kickoff and he left the house at 9:00 AM. They sat in the blazing sun (it was mid-90s during the game) and munched on hot dogs, snacks and juice while the Wolfpack put one in the win column.
After the game, Chase was lucky enough to go to dinner with Bryan and the gang. He then came home in a trance and showered and was put to bed. He slept like a log but when I came home, I heard every detail. Here are some of the pictures that I got from Whitney throughout the day.
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| Walk of Champions - first time Chase will get to see Bryan |
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| Pre-game warm ups |
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| Game time |
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| He has the Wolfpack sign down to a science - again, Dad and I aren't too sure about this move! |
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| Bright sun and he wouldn't wear his hat because the only one that fits is a Carolina hat and the light blue was not approved in that stadium |
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| Chase with a friend watching the game |
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| Walking hand in hand with Mr. Bryan after the game on the way to dinner |
This boy completely adores not only Whitney but Bryan as well. They are showering him with love and allowing him to be a part of a world that most kids only dream exists. My problem, trying to explain to him that Mommy doesn't have good seats when she goes to games!
Whitney and Bryan, I know that we have said it before but I honestly don't think that words will ever be able to express just how special you are to us. You have welcomed us into your lives and blessed us with your kindness and generosity. You are amazing role models for my kids and it makes me proud and honored to say that I know you on a such a personal level. You are both to be commended for the outstanding impact you have on not just the lives of my boys, but the lives of every child you come in contact with. Don't ever forget what a blessing you are to us and remember that you will always be thought of as family.
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