Saturday the 17th was our annual Adoptive Family Picnic for Tampa.

We all gathered at Ballast Point Park.  We were nestled in the perfect spot, between the playground, the Gazebo and the bay.  It was an wonderful location with the nice breeze and a view of the horse farm just across the street.

Once we spread out the sandwiches, snacks, and goodies, families started to arrive, and it was time to begin the fun!

It was a lovely day. There was face painting, chalk, and bubbles for the kiddos.  The adults entered to win raffle items and enjoyed the company of shared community.

It’s a unique experience to be surrounded by people that share the same journey to a forever family.  And at the same time, with an entire group of people touched by adoption, no two stories were the same.  Each adoption is as unique as a fingerprint.

Everyone’s stories were being shared, sympathized with, and were encouraging others.

Many people drove from cities away, but the longest distance traveled goes to our family from Netherlands.  They are in town waiting on a passport for their new little one.  Being so far from home, this was an opportunity to give them a sense of extended family.

After everyone had eaten their fill, we drew tickets for the raffle.  The prizes included: baskets of heart shape goodies such as mugs and picture frames, Heart of Adoptions large canvas bags stuffed with giant stuffed animals, and even a gift card from Tebelle Tea Company, one of Tampa’s prominent tea shops.

While the raffle was being drawn, I had the privilege of cutting into the cake.  Wright’s Gourmet House, A Tampa institution, donated a sheet cake of their Alpine cake.  Their generosity made our families feel spoiled, and the cake was delicious.  I should know as I got to take home some of the left overs.

It’s been a week since our picnic, but I’m still basking in the warm memories of our day at the park. We can’t wait to do this all over again in May for our Orlando families!