I planned out our trip and how we would spend our days while in Florida. I made reservations months in advance. It was written down and in my mind. What I didn't plan was how emotional this trip would be. In quite moments away from the kids I often cry, one being in the shower or in the car by myself. I found myself crying in the shower the while at GKTW(Give Kids The World Village). Being treated so special was overwhelming at times. We were a Make-A-Wish family...we were a Make-A-Wish family. I could not seem to wrap my mind around that idea. This happens to other people, but not us.
Sometimes it easy to forget what Presley has gone through. Sometimes you want to forget what she goes through. We were able to come to this special place, a place that understands what has happened to Presley. Maybe a little piece of her injury has been mended. We sure hope so.
We didn't have to worry about clinic visits, cooking, cleaning, germs, blood levels (well I always worry about that), and bills, or snow for 10 days. Every need was met and wish was granted. It was everything we dreamed and more. This amazing gift was just want we needed to heal our broken hearts and give us a much needed break from the cancer world. For 10 days we really did forget about our life back home. I never wanted to come home. It will never be possible to thank everyone personally who helped make this trip happen. We are humbled and so grateful. Our hearts are full!
I am going to break down our trip by days. I document so my children can remember. I also blog so I too can remember times that seems to fade with time. I do not blog to brag or make others feel jealous. That is not my intent.
Day One
Our flight left SLC at about 10:00 am Monday morning. Mark picked us up and dropped us off. I think it was screaming we were headed to Disney! With our Make-A-Wish shirts on and crocheted Mickey and Minnie hats we had excitement written all over us. We had some very excited kids on our hands...the day had finally arrived. Thank heavens (ie. Dawkins family) for Ipads. The kids were a dream on the plane. Even the airlines made this trip memorable. After the kids got their first round of drinks the airline steward brought each of the kids a sack lunch with slider sandwiches, chips and a box of treats! They gave the kids "wings" to wear and gave them headphones free of charge.
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| Happy girl...ready for Florida! |
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| Crew loved his wings! |
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| We loved the snack bucket! |
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| Ipads made the 4 hour flight doable! |
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| Right at home...these minions can destroy any area in 5 min! |
After our long flight we were greeted at the airport by JoJo one of the volunteers from GKTW. Jojo helped us get our bags and show us where to go to pick up the rental car. These details that GKTW volunteers do makes this trip even better. They take the worry and hassle out of our traveling. They then gave us directions to get to the village.
When we got to GKTW this is what we pulled up to
It was one of those moments when what you see and feel is much better than what you expected! Tears were in my eyes. I knew that moment this trip was going to be a dream come true. This place is called the "House of Hearts" and that is exactly what it is. We were greeted with smiles and they were waiting for our arrival.
They gave kids a stuffed animal...Mickey of course.
Then took us on a tour of our villa. We got to ride the golf cart to our villa.
Here is our Villa
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| Kids room! |
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| Mom and Dads Room |
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| Moms and Dads Bathroom |
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| Jacuzzi |
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| Kid Shower |
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| Kids Bathroom |
Presley was so cute. Without us knowing she had her luggage unzipped and unpacked into the bottom drawer of her dresser! Everything was organized she was ready for the week!
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| Pretty sure...this was the happiest day of her life. She loved the "new house" |
When we walked in the "gift fairy" already left us a treat. We also were surprised that Presley "Chemo Angel" sent us a package to GKTW. Stacey is so thoughtful. She also made and sent us a countdown to Disney! She sent snacks, water bottles, character auto graph books. Her kindness and taking the time to know what Presley likes and what is happening in our life is amazing.
Other wish families told us we would need to bring an extra suit case just to bring home all the gifts we were given at GKTW. Boy were they right.
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Next we headed to the adorable Gingerbread House for dinner.
It is staffed by the sweetest volunteers who wouldn't let you carry your own tray or get your own drink. That first night at dinner I had tears in my eyes. They treated us like royalty. They did everything they could to make us comfortable and happy. The spirit of love and service in the village was very strong. Everyone always waved and smiles and did everything they could to help.
No one started at our pixie hair daughter, only smiles and hugs were given. I never felt judged. It was an amazing feeling being surrounded by all theses families. The reality that everyone of these people sitting by me were families that have endure and struggled just like us. The comfort of knowing these families too have had to do hard things makes you feel right at home.
All the tables and chairs are kid size and decorated with peppermints.
All around the top of the building were thousands of dolls from all around the world.
Dinner is served in a buffet style at the Gingerbread house (Breakfast and Dinner)
They even have a whole section that is kid friendly items, hot dogs, mac and cheese, pudding pickles, finger foods
Next stop was the Enchanted Carousel. This quickly became a tradition to ride the carousel before, and after each meal. Daddy was always a good sport riding with the kids. At GKTW there are no rules so they could just keep riding and riding. No one is going to tell them to get off..only the parents! Crew loved to ride the lion and is good at "roaring" (too good) and Presley loved the unicorn or the horses.
After dinner was time for a soak and bubbles in their jacuzzi. The kids loved this!
While the kids took a bath I went to orientation. During orientation I was given all the information needed about GKTW Village, the amusement parks and the Orlando area. They do not skip a beat.
I learned and fell in love more with GKTW
Give Kids The World Village is a 70-acre, non profit "Storybook" resort, located near central Florida's most beloved attractions where children with life threatening illnesses and their families are treated to week long, cost free fantasy vacations.
"Where Happiness Inspires Hope"
Each week 1500 volunteer shifts need to be filled and they donate their time.
It's all about saying yes to families who all too often have to say no or are told no to.
Ice Cream is served for breakfast and Christmas is celebrated every Thursday. Everyday at the village is a holiday!
I will tell more about GKTW in future posts!
As Cinderella says it....
"No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep believing the dream that you wish will come true!"
Love this! Can't wait for the other posts
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