We will once again be having our Annual Children's Christmas Party. This started seven years ago mostly as a way for us to see our friends at Christmas and for all of our kids to gather together. The first year the party was in our living room and I dressed as Santa. Allie had some of her friends from school, but the party was mostly filled with my college friends and their families.
I rented a suit for the big day and I'm pretty sure I never sweat as much as I did that day in my life....save for Ron Farraway's wedding!! We had little gifts for all the kids and snacks and drinks for Santa - this Santa likes to get his drink on!! - and we collected unwrapped toys and canned food for the shelter. As the years went on, the party grew in size and we needed to start renting a place...and a Santa. The kids were able to tell that it was me and asked me not to do it again. I'm pretty sure the place I rented the suit from had the same opinion when I brought the sweaty gear back to them!!
As it stands right now, it seems like this may be the last year for our party. The kids are getting older - they asked for no Santa this year - and my college friends are all unable to come this year. With busy lives and schedules, I knew this day would come but it makes it sad none-the-less. We have invited over 60 kids to the party this year and have 40 that have confirmed. Instead of food and toys we are soliciting donations for the Bob Kemp Hospice here in Hamilton. It is a great place and we look forward to giving them some much deserved money.
Hopefully all the people reading this will be able to find a cause that is close to your heart and you will be able to give to those in need. We all know the holidays can be hectic and crazy but if we take some time to do something for someone less fortunate, that can really make your holidays all the better. It doesn't always have to be a monetary donation, as your time can be just as valuable.
So, how about a quick weight-related pep talk. I was reading an article about how this weekend and the next are always the busiest for work Christmas parties. They gave some good tips about not blowing your whole diet and while most of them seemed like common sense, the refresher was nice because common sense and office Christmas parties rarely go hand-in-hand. I would give a link but it was actually in a magazine!! Who knew you could still read articles not on the internet? For the most part, they said to eat a nice, healthy dinner before you get to the party and when you're there stay away from the alcohol. Not only will you avoid the cals from the booze, you won't be the office jack-ass that got hammered and lite into the boss!!
Enjoy your weekend and we'll chat again Tuesday!!
Russ
My family donates to a number of charities throughout the year, most of them children's agencies. (once a teacher, always a teacher). At this time of year, we try to top up the donations. Our family and especially our children are very spoiled and we are fortunate to live a comfortable life.
ReplyDeleteHere is where you come in. You have worked so hard and inspired so many people along the way, that I will reward your weigh loss this way. Fifty dollars has gone to the Salvation Army kettle campaign and today I will send $51.60 to the Bob Kemp Hospice. One dollar for every pound. (Notice I am doing it before you post this weeks stats LOL)
The hospice is so important to families, especially children of ill parents or grandparents and a very worthwhile cause.
You are teaching your children and your followers a valuable lesson. Nothing is impossible. Keep up the excellent progress and postings.
Joyce Baker (retired teacher,(but not old)from Ridgemount School. I did not teach your children but not for lack of begging at class creating time)