The kids were so excited for an opportunity to be Bell Ringers for The Salvation Army this year. We thought their seven hour shift would pass more quickly with friends, so we invited Courtney and her kids to join us for the day.
Karah and Bradley started out the shift. It was an unseasonably warm December day. We definitely lucked out on the weather.
Their ringing was quite enthusiastic in the beginning.
Over time they developed hand cramps and had to take a breather.
Bradley ran to see Daddy when he pulled up with the delivery of our next worker...Brycer.
Bryce knew how to bring in the bucks.
He rang and smiled and hollered "Mewwy Chwithmith" as people stopped.
Before we knew it, the kettle was completely full.
We were amazed at the generosity of so many people.
The twins joined us later that morning. Karah was happy to take a sucker break.
AFTER we had several sodas, hot chocolate, and a full lunch at our bell ringing station...we noticed the sign that said volunteers aren't allowed to eat or drink while at the stand. Woops. What's the old adage? It's better to ask for forgiveness than permission? :)
We had a "boys shift" later that afternoon. By then it looked like a small animal had been slaughtered on Bradley's jacket. I think people felt sorry for the little vagabond and kept donating.
Courtney and I tried our luck at Bell ringing. The donations immediately slowed, so we decided to act as supervisors and drink our Diet Coke, instead.
One of the Walmart workers came out and asked if she could sing.
Of course we obliged...while Courtney and I tried not to make eye contact with each other.
It was a great experience for all of us and we are already talking about doing it next year.
A new tradition.
Merry Christmas!
What a wonderful Christmas tradition!!! What awesome parents you all are to guide your children to have personal experiences with the joy of serving and the importance of giving to help those less fortunate. I loved the picture of you and Courtney together - pure joy! And Brycer is definitely unforgettable with his Merry Christmas said as only a wee child can say. No wonder his pot was full!!! I was amazed at the confidence of Karah and Bradley - they knew in their hearts who they were serving that day. Precious memories!
ReplyDeleteThat was such a fun day! Thanks for organizing everything. I can't wait for next year. What cute and "enthusiastic" bell ringers we have. :)
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