As I walked around the hotel banquet room, I chose to eavesdrop on the conversations I was overhearing.

One woman has her arm around another mom and is rubbing her back. I struggle to hear their conversation. I overhear some words that I recognize…..”IEP, full inclusion, school.”

Some conversations are less serious….unicorns, Down syndrome awareness shirts, and prickly pear margaritas by the lazy river.

Then there are the comments that signify the entire reason we are here.

“We are finally meeting. I feel like I know you, but now I can actually hug you. I am so glad you are here.”