a brief stop

After about an hour in the car, I asked Joe if we could pull of and get a cup of tea from a cafe. I saw, in the set of Joe's jaw, that he really didn't want to stop. I understood, I wanted to get home too, but I wanted to stop just for a minute. We pulled off the interstate and found a small cafe. Joe grabbed my sippy cup to go get it filled and I asked if he'd mind me getting out of the car. A tight nod of the head said, 'Sure, alright, let's just move in here' but his voice said, 'Of course.'

We went in and there was a small line up. Over in the corner by the front window was a smallish little birthday party happening. Everyone was in bright colours and a birthday cake was delivered to the table while we waited in line. The table was surrounded by little girls, all about three or four. They were dressed up and it seemed like 'tea party' was the theme of the event. I gave my order when I got to the counter and then paid and pulled over the side to wait.

As I waited the birthday girl arrived. There was a huge cheer and little hands covered a little mouth open in real shock. My eyes widened as I saw a beautiful little girl with Down Syndrome dash to a party with friends. I nudged Joe but he was already watching. He, too, with tears in his eyes. My attention was called back to pick up my tea and I noticed that everyone in the store was grinning at the delight of a little girl.

I asked Joe to hold my tea as I rolled over to the table. 'There's something I'd like to see' I whispered to him. We sat, and watched along with everyone else, as the candles were lit. She screwed up her face and made a big wish, and then blew out the candles - with a little help of several friends who couldn't resist.

I don't need to know what she wished for, she may not know it yet but it's already been granted.

Happy birthday little girl, many more parties, many more friends, many more wishes, granted.