Make A Wish …

To Orlando, Florida

My grandson, Aaron, received his “wish” from the Make A Wish Foundation for a trip to Disney World. It began with a kickoff luncheon Saturday the 3rd of February. His pick was The Mongolian Grill, one of his favorite places.

The Wish Coordinators presented Aaron and his family with everything they needed to enjoy a week in Disney world. The limited edition ball cap for Aaron would identify him as the recipient of the wish and the large blue buttons would give them preferential treatment in all Disney Theme Parks. He would be treated like a King! Virtually anything he wants will be given to him, including unlimited rides, free food, lodging, medical treatment if needed, and all the frills that go along with this special vacation.

The day began Saturday morning, February 10, 2007, with a big, white stretch limousine pulling up in front of the house and a tall, older gentleman, dressed smartly in a suit and smiling like he had won the lottery, stepped out to greet Aaron. He and his younger brother, his Mom and Dad, were taken to the airport for their flight to Orlando, Florida.

Deb and I we privileged to be a part of this adventure. We bought airline tickets several days ago, arranged for our stay in a Worldmark condominium and purchased Disney Theme Park Tickets in downtown Portland. Our youngest son will be flying from Dallas, Texas to join us in Orlando. This would be an exciting adventure!

Their stay in Orlando was at a facility called “Give Kids The World”. It was an amazing place! The Duplex was very roomy, the food was excellent, the volunteer staff members were extremely nice, and everything was perfect. It was also, ALL FREE!

The Theme Parks were not overly crowded as this was school season and the weather was rainy. We grandparents joined them Sunday morning and rode together (as they had free parking passes). We spent the day at “Animal Kingdom”. It was great! We came back in the early evening and had a Devotional together in the Duplex. Afterwards we enjoyed a free dinner (Pot Roast with mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, salad, etc…..).

Monday we parked at Epcot and rode the Monorail to the Magic Kingdom and enjoyed a myriad of rides and stuff. As evening fell, we hopped onto the Monorail again and went to Epcot to catch a few rides and the Laser Light Show on the Lake. It was amazing!!

Tuesday we returned to Epcot to enjoy more rides and a little rain. We loaded up in the afternoon and went to MGM Studios for more rides and their Laser Light Show that evening.

Wednesday came early as we headed for the airport for our trip back to Portland. The kids would remain behind enjoying 3 more days in the Theme parks, where they were treated even better than before.

The very cool thing about all of it was that Aaron and crew would be ushered past the crowds waiting in line for rides, to the front of the line! Yes! No Waiting!! That was pretty cool!

We are very grateful to Make A Wish for their generous gift to our grandson’s family! It was a very special treat for him to go to Disneyworld. It was a trip of a lifetime! Aaron had a wonderful time and enjoyed himself immensely. He remained in fair health during the whole ordeal and was able to make some great memories.

Thanks to everyone who played a role in this event, especially to those of you who are faithful to keep him in your prayers! They did work!!

May God bless all of you who give to kids!