I'm not sure where to begin really...
Our trek to our east side family was WAY in the middle of NOWHERE today! When we finally determined that we were at our destination, we were met by a very nice family. As we told this gal what we were doing there, I thought maybe I was speaking a foreign language at first. The look on her face made me studder a bit and start trying to explain our intentions again! As I began to spill out to her a second time what we were doing there, Eman kinda stepped in and, the look of elation and relief came over her. I was really at a loss for a moment there. I think it was disbelief.
As we did last year, we started by presenting Eman's should-be-famous meal. From there, we explained that all of the items(with the exception of a 3 phase motor) in the back of my truck were for her. She must have asked half a dozen times how we had managed to find out all of these things about her! Every time, our response was that we were crafty! LOL! This morning, I wrapped several items for Grandma and a couple for Grandaughter but, most were too large to wrap. I wanted them to have something for under the tree. Being how their new trailer isn't set yet, most of what I brought to them today, came back with me to be stored in my conference room until their new home is ready to move into. We were asked to tell each and every one of you thank you and so, THANK YOU!
This year, we were met on both sides with a unique situation...We had a surplus of funds! We also, almost immediately had a solution to this!
After I got the call yesterday that the west had a surplus, I got another call about a family in need. As per the request of the insurance salesman, I won't mention his name(wink wink!). He had a family that Grandma and Grandpa was raising twin 7 yr olds who really wanted some new bicycles to ride. The anonymous insurance salesman made it happen! On top of that, he was able to provide numerous gift cards to help them along the way with groceries and...Life! I think it's safe to say that the experience was a humbling one for them as well.
After I sat down today, and totalled up reciepts, I determined that we had $208.56 left over from the east side family. Well, sadly, last night, in a nearby town, a trailer fire occurred. In that trailer was four children. Two boys, ages 4 and 6, didn't make it out alive. Two girls, ages 10 and 12 did. Not only did they lose two young lives, they lost everything they owned, including Christmas presents. I called "Chicken" and explained the situtation and, immediately, he said, "Cut em the check!" So, that's what happened. I'm not sure if the money will go toward funeral cost or replacing clothes and toys but, I'm certain it will go to good use!
I am again humbled by the fact that I am surrounded by so many great people here at SC! You guys don't know how far-reaching your contributions have gone! It's an unbelievable experience to be a part of and, I can't thank each of you enough for helping make it happen!! Without each of you, this is impossible. I am quite certain that I am forgetting some details and, I know that there are some of you who have offered items/appliances to us for this event...Know that we are coming for them very soon. We ran out of time but, will be along soon to pick up the rest.
May The Good Lord continue to bless each of you as he has blessed me. Again, my hat is off to you. You guys/gals are the greatest!! Thanks again guys!
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