A Time of Giving...

Each year we try and do a little by "giving" to those in need. Usually, we donate some new toys to "Toys for Tots". In addition to this, we wanted do more.

This year we "adopted" a family through a local non-profit organization here in Lincoln called, the Lincoln Lighthouse. It's a resource center that provides a variety of medical, family services, and counseling to those in need.

We adopted the Wren family.They have 5 children (4 boys and 1 girl) from ages 5 to 11 years of age. The Wrens moved to Lincoln recently to get a better life and get away from the "bad" things that they were surrounded by in another city. Unfortunately, unemployed and trying to get back on their feet, they came here with little to nothing. They had no beds for the kids, no microwave oven, and no table or chairs to eat on, etc. They were lacking many of the "necessities" that most of us take for granted like coats for the children.

We were on a mission so, we went out and bought 5 brand new jackets for the kids along with matching caps and gloves. We also thought to ourselves, "what's Christmas without toys?" So, we also purchased age/gender appropriate toys for each child and made sure we knew what their interests were. Toys ranged from an electronic basketball game, Barbies w/houses, a video game, power rangers, and sports. In this spirit of giving,Lance was also able to get his colleagues/friends from his office to donate as well. One family donated and delivered a dining set, food, a new microwave oven and, purchased a special Christmas dinner. Other friends donated clothes, furniture, money, and toys. Our givings created a little "snow-ball effect" and others were happy to help out this family too. How wonderful it was!

This whole experience was a positive one, especially because Joshie and Jayden were a big part of it. We talked about those less fortunate and how sad it must be especially during the winters and holidays. Joshie and Jayden were right there with us picking the jackets and toys and delivering the items to the Lighthouse. Joshie and Jayden were happy to be a part of this and were very excited to give these great things to the Wren family. On another note, Joshie was assigned to write an essay on what he would do if he was Santa Claus....the number one thing he would do in his own words was,"help all the families who could not afford to buy their children
toys".

We received a touching thank you card and letter from the Wrens. They were very thankful for our help and gifts and were overwhelmed with everything. Their children were so excited and happy and said that this was the "best Christmas they have ever had!" This is what it's all about. Being able to give to others and help them and knowing that we made a difference in their lives.

We feel truly blessed that we were able to do this and give from our hearts to a family we don't even know. This was also an important lesson for Joshie and Jayden and hopefully this will keep them mindful on how very lucky they/we are and to appreciate all we have.