Ellie's Birthday Party - Tomorrow!

This flyer was made possible by the talented and giving Katee Bailey!  Also, details on the flyer have been changed and are not accurate at this time.  This is the flyer that will be handed out to the children and staff at Children's this week in preparation of the party.  I wanted you to see how darling it is!

I can't believe that Ellie's birthday is already upon us.  I remember her seventh birthday so vividly; it truly blows my mind.  I'm so very grateful for the many offers of help with this celebration. I'm not in an emotional state that would allow me to handle all of the details right now, so I'm so thankful for my friends who are stepping in and taking care of those things!

This won't be a typical birthday party like the ones we've had for Ellie in the past with many friends and family members.  Because of hospital rules, we are very limited on many things (understandably so).  Below are the rules, as were explained to me today:

• Because of it being "sick season", no one who has been sick within the last 24 hours can attend.  This includes those who have been in close contact with sick loved ones and friends.  This will help assure that the children who attend don't have a chance of getting even more  ill.  
• Only 20 people are allowed to serve as volunteers and attend.  This is because of space, and because we want the focus to be on the children in the hospital, rather than on Ellie Kate.  We already have close to 20 committed to coming, but if you know in your heart that you want to join us, please message me and we will try our best to add you to the list!  
• Only our family alone will be handing out gifts to the various floors, going door to door.  Understandably, this will help cut down on confusion.  Also, everyone who steps foot on the floor MUST have had a flu shot, which our immediate family has had.
• No latex balloons are allowed.  Many children have serious latex allergies, so all balloons that are donated, or given must be mylar.  
• Each volunteer will meet at the designated time and will sign releases for HIPPA laws and such (again, contact me for more information).  

Thank you for understanding these rules, Friends.  If you aren't part of the special-needs or medical world, I know these all may be hard to understand.  We agree with the rules that have been set for us, and hope that you will understand.  It isn't that we want you NOT to be at the party!  There are other ways you will be able to show the Ellie Kate love, and I will be sure to highlight those things very shortly.  

Since many won't be able to attend tomorrow, I will be sure to write a detailed post and include lots of pictures!  All of you have been so kind in giving SO much with the book drive, and I want you to see what an impact you are having on these sweet children.  

Speaking of the book drive, we now have had approximately 800 books and toys donated.  Can you believe that?!  My jaw drops at the thought!  I see the books piled up in bins in our dining room, and it is truly a vivid picture of your love for our daughter and for us.  Through your donations, you are not only making a sick child feel loved, but you are also making us feel loved, treasured and remembered at such a difficult time.  You will never know the impact of your actions this side of Heaven, I assure you.  

Check out the book plates donated by Sarah Morgan!  Each and every book and toy donated will have these stickers on them, reminding the children that they are loved and telling them a bit about Ellie Kate.  What a beautiful legacy!  

Thank you too for the many texts, emails, encouraging words, and prayers that you've sent us this week.  I don't think we could do this without you, and that is exactly why God has surrounded us with such a great and supportive community of friends.  You spur us on and remind us that we are not alone, which is a treasure unlike any other.  

With Hope,

Ryan