Sofy's birthday surprise!

My heart melts when I think of the Gallardo family. I wish I could describe to you the deep connection I've had over the last 6 months with them but I can't. Lilly, Manuel, Marco and Sofy - they are our Mexican familia and I would go to the ends of the earth for them. We were blessed to meet Lilly when Chase was 6 months old at Bally's gym. Day and night Lilly watches over Chase as if he was her own. She brings him (and no other children) snacks. She makes us food every Friday. She text me when she's sad and misses Chase. She invites us into her home with all her friends. I give them old clothes, shower them with simple gifts and food and help her with whatever she needs. They have taught us so much about being content and appreciative of the little things. They don't have much but are always glowing with excitement. Manuel is out of work and Lilly works long hours at the gym to make their rental payment. Even when Lilly should be resting (she is 8 months pregnant) and taking care of herself, she is caring for the herds of wild children that go in and out of the childcare daily. They live in a very small home with 3 adults and and soon to be 4 children. But they are thankful. Thankful for the roof over their head. Thankful for good health. Thankful for the people in her life. Last week this is a text I received from Lilly that brought tears to my eyes...

"You're special for us. I love forever. I'm special because I have the best friends and that's blessings in my life. You're my friends. Lots of kissed for MY Chase!"

Chase with Lilly and his posse at the gym. Gotta love the diversity he's surrounded by.

Chase and Sofy on their way to McDonalds

On Tuesday it was Sofy's 6th birthday so I decided I wanted to do something memorable for her. I kept asking Lilly what Sofy wanted for her birthday and she kept telling me, "nothing...she is just happy to have you come to her party." I wanted it to be simple so we picked her up after school and took her to her lunch of choice - McDonalds! I will never forget how excited she was as she ran down the driveway, arms open wide already thanking me for "making her so happy!" We ordered Happy Meals and she helped Chase around the jungle gym. It was precious to see. As Manuel greeted us in the driveaway upon our return, he hugged me and said, "I will never forget this day and what you have done for my daughter."