amusement park joy with my boy
When Angel was little — back when we were still fostering him and had no idea what the outcome would be — we got a season pass to Disneyland. Matt was able to join us a couple of times, but because of his work schedule, it became mostly a Mommy and Angel thing.
Every single month, I’d pull him out of preschool for the day at least once and we’d make the drive to Anaheim. For those few precious hours, it was just joy. No thoughts about the uncertainty of foster care or the weight of the world — just my boy and me, making memories and soaking up the magic.
A few days ago, I was sitting at my computer, staring at my calendar, and I realized summer was slipping away. All I really wanted was to be with my family. So Matt and I cleared as much space as we could, and yesterday, I pulled Angel out of summer camp. We spent the day at the amusement park — just us again. Just joy.
I cried three times. Twice out of happiness and gratitude. And once out of fear because this kid is an adrenaline junkie and I was effing terrified.
All day the memories came flooding back. My prayers during those 2.5 years for Angel’s highest good, wherever he was meant to land. And tears because I’m so grateful it’s with us.
Core memories, for sure.
