Sofia, Natasha, and 'Grampa' Irv ready to meet, greet, and party!

The first evening of the conference was a chance for people to register, and then be welcomed. There was a lovely buffet, some dancing by local youths, and then an evening of socializing. When the youths were putting on their step-dancing show, Sofia was at the edge of the floor copying them, and at one point almost joined the show!

I only attended the Welcoming Evening and then the final Closing Banquet and Dance. I did babysit Sofia so that Natasha could attend a seminar. My goal was to meet the people I've met online only, and to show off Sofia!!! I was successful in both.

All dressed up and a fun place to go!

On our way to the party we stopped and took photos.

Everyone was having a good time!

Sofia was sitting on the steps to the stage. Then another little girl joined her, and soon we had a garden of pretty flowers.

Sofia on her way to the party.

I picked up Sofia and Natasha to drive them to the reception. We just got underway and Sofia reminded us to 'Seat belts!'

Sofia was very friendly and sociable. A number of people recognized her from this website and the Yahoo Down Syndrome Canadian Parents group and came over to meet her. She was never shy, always smiling, and ready with a hug for those she sensed needed one.

Sofia took part in two different performances. In the first, 'Wee Willie Winkie', the kids marched around and kept rhythm. In the second, called 'Stop and Go' the kids played simple instruments, then danced with fancy veils, and started and stopped when the music did. I'm not really a theatre critic, and perhaps a little biased, but in my humble opinion, Sofia was the best of all the performers.

Sofia was having a wonderful time!

The kids didn't always know what to do or where to go, but they tried hard, and with a little guidance from their parents all went well. It was not easy getting photos because it meant blocking the audience -- then you had to wait until your child was in the right place and standing still enough for a good photo. I did notice that quite often everyone else was out of step except for Sofia!

Wee Willie Winkie

During recitation of the poem, the children marched around, and tapped out the rhythm on triangles and drums.

Oh my Gosh!

I'm not sure just what was happening here. I think the audience was applauding. This is Sofia's 'Oh my gosh!' expression.

After the concert Sofia's Poppa took us all to Tony Roma's -- a lovely restaurant. When it came time to order, Sofia knew exactly what to do and said 'Fries!!' She circulated among us tasting this and that from our plates. I ordered apple crisp for dessert thinking Sofia might like it, but she only really wanted ice cream. All in all it made for a lovely afternoon.