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Silas chuckles. “Sure thing, video call me once you’re parked and settled. I can’t wait to chat with Haven.”
I pull into the gas station, and before I even have the car in park, Haven has already undone her seatbelt and is crawling between the seats, plopping down in the passenger seat. The excitement radiates off her in waves; to say she loves her Uncle Silas is an understatement. He might just be her favorite person in the world. When Uncle Silas is around, Mom and Aunt Mar no longer exist.
I press the button that allows the video call to connect, and Silas wastes no time answering. I have the phone set up on the dash so he can see Haven’s face and hands, just as he has done on his end. They waste no time catching up and talking about everything and nothing all at once. They chat for fifteen minutes when I tell Haven to get back in her seat and buckle because we need to go, or we will be late for the appointment. She sends all her love to Uncle Silas, and he sends it right back to her.
“Sorry about that, Silas, but I have an appointment at a boutique that I can’t be late for; it’s for work. But I promise we will call you when we get home. I’m sure Haven won’t let me forget.”
“It’s alright, little sister; I was just calling to check in. We can talk more when you’re back home. I have some things I need to discuss with you after I chat a bit more with Haven. So, make sure to call me back, or I’ll call you if I don’t hear from you by, let’s say, six?”
“That works; I’ll talk to you in a bit,” I say, ending the call. Turning to check that Haven is buckled in correctly, I smile at her eager expression.Ready to go?
Haven nods enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with excitement.Ready!
We continue our journey to the Dress Me Up boutique, arriving with two minutes to spare. The quaint shop, with its charming window displays and inviting atmosphere, promises adelightful shopping experience. As we step inside, the bell above the door jingles softly, and I feel a sense of anticipation for the day ahead.
The dress shop is absolutely enchanting. When Patricia recommended it, I had braced myself for something overly fancy and intimidating. To my delight, it is the complete opposite.
The shop is housed in a charming two-story brick building, lovingly transformed from an old house into a boutique with character and warmth. The double doors at the entrance open into a cozy alcove, leading to another set of doors. On the right wall, there is a screen and a button with a sign instructing visitors to press for assistance.
I press the button, and a woman appears on the screen, signing as she speaks. Tears welled up in my eyes, and my heart swells with joy. Patricia had sent me here knowing I would appreciate the inclusive atmosphere, especially since Haven was likely to be with me. I sign and speak to the woman, introduce myself and explain that I have an appointment to be dressed for the Starry Night Gala.
Haven watches intently, her eyes wide with curiosity and excitement. This place is more than just a dress shop; it is a haven of understanding and kindness. As we wait, I feel a sense of belonging and anticipation, ready to find the perfect outfit for the magical evening ahead.
The door clicks open, and as we step inside, our eyes dart around, trying to take in everything at once. The shop is a kaleidoscope of colors and styles, with walls lined with dresses, business suits, athletic wear, and even pajama sets. Every size, every shape, and a rainbow of hues were represented. I glance at Haven with a smile,What do you think of the place?
Her eyes were wide with wonder,Heaven.
A petite woman with graying hair, a gentle smile, and Coke bottle glasses approaches us. She signs and speakssimultaneously, explains that she had opened this shop to cater to every woman’s needs. She shared that our community, rich with deaf culture, often faced challenges finding clothing that fit well, especially for those who were too tall, too short, or had unique body shapes. Not to mention the language barrier for those who were deaf trying to explain what they needed without having to write everything down. Many had to drive hours to the city, paying outrageous prices for the right outfit.
Determined to change that, she created Dress Me Up, a place where any woman could walk in and feel confident that she would find something perfect for her event or activity. The first floor housed all the clothing items, while the second floor was dedicated to shoes and accessories. She had preserved the warmth and charm of the original house, making it feel like a welcoming family home.
As she speaks, I feel a deep appreciation for her vision and the inclusive atmosphere she had cultivated. Haven is already exploring, her fingers brushing against the fabrics, her face lit with excitement. This place is more than just a boutique; it is a sanctuary of acceptance and beauty, and I know we are in for a special experience.
To be honest, Patricia was right; the boutique did have a homey feel. I feel more relaxed here than I did before we walked in. Haven looks as though she can not wait to see all the dresses and shoes. The excitement is making her little body vibrate, her eyes dart around, checking out all the options.
“I’m afraid to admit I was a little hesitant that you would have anything in my size due to my short stature, but now that I am here, I am confident I will look amazing,” I say, my voice filled with awe as I glance around the boutique.
The woman smiles warmly, her eyes twinkling behind her glasses. “We pride ourselves on having something foreveryone. Let’s find you the perfect dress for the Starry Night Gala.”
Haven tugs at my hand, excitedly,Can we start with the dresses?
I nod, feeling a surge of excitement myself.Yes, let’s start with the dresses.
As we move through the boutique, the woman guides us to a section filled with elegant gowns. Haven’s eyes widen as she takes in the array of colors and styles. I can see her mind racing with possibilities, and I feel a sense of anticipation building within me. This was going to be a day to remember.
“Alright, let’s get started! Just so you know, we all sign as we speak here to stay in practice. If you’d prefer, I can just use my voice, let me know. Some people find sign language so fascinating that they end up missing what we’re saying.”
“I don’t mind at all. My roommate and I do the same thing whenever Haven is around so she doesn’t feel left out. By the way, I’m Indya—like the country, but spelled differently—and this is my four-year-old daughter,
Haven.”
“It’s wonderful to meet you both. I’m Maggie, the owner and founder of Dress Me Up. Haven, before we start finding the perfect dress for your mom, would you like a snack?”
Haven turns her head to look at me, asking if it is okay to receive a snack from this woman we have just met; I give her a nod, signing,Of course, you can.
Haven’s face is a picture of concentration as she prepares to reply,Yes, ma’am, I would like snack. I no like sushi.
Maggie and I burst into laughter while she explains that there is no sushi available, and she is thinking more along the lines of cookies, fruit, and pastries along with water,juice, or milk to go with them. Haven nods her head so quickly her curls are bouncing everywhere.
