Hope for the Holidays

One of Darin's roles at our new church is Outreach Minister.  He, along with a team of volunteers, organized the annual "Hope for the Holidays" event in an attempt to engage those who are less fortunate in our community.  The school counselors give us information (wish/needs lists) for students and their families.  Together, we helped provide gifts for over 80 children this Christmas, and food for their families. 

We "adopted" an 18-month-old girl because Jonathan could totally relate to her...her needs list indicated that she wanted anything that made music.  Perfect!  We let Jonathan pick out everything for the little girl.  He was all business and made clothing decisions quickly.  He wanted her to have pink clothes, and the boy loves cupcakes.  It was so much fun to let him choose things for someone else, all the while reminding him why we were shopping for someone we don't even know.  He didn't mind getting gifts for someone...he loved it!  He just wanted to be able to see the little girl open her presents.  Of course, with an infant an a three-year-old, things didn't go quite as planned.  Owen got a little fussy, and Darin and Jonathan got a little distracted looking at Star Wars toys.  After a little correction, we got back on track.  :O)  It was such a wonderful experience as a family, and I'm excited to do it again next year.  Enjoy the pictures of our family shopping experience!