Festival of Trees

Over two months ago my friend, and old college roommate, Angela Hatch Maxwell (whose little brother Steve also happened to married my little sister Erin) asked me if she could do a tree for our Little Air Bear at the Festival of Trees.  I was so touched and cried and hugged her when she asked.  Little did I know how much effort she would put into the beautiful tree and the great gift that she and so many others gave us through that tree.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Festival of Trees, it is organized and orchestrated by volunteers through the state and relies on the generous support of those who decorate and purchase trees, wreaths, gingerbread creations, playhouses, centerpieces, and quilts.  More importantly, every penny raised helps children at Primary Children’s Medical Center.  The Festival raised $1,522,497.22 in 2009!

Here is Little Air Bear's Tree Display. 

It was located at E-9.

The whole display.

Erin's picture in her red dress and white head band.

The gorgeous tree.

Little Air Bear (red dress & white headband)

and Daddy Bear, reading the Christmas story.

Mama Bear overlooking her family.

She was even wearing high heels!

Cecily Bear playing her piano.

Caleb Bear reading books.

The Nativity. 

Thank you to Angela's brother-in-law who built the stable.

Thank you to everyone who donated and purchased the tree.

It was a HUGE surprise! 

We didn't even get it at first.  We were so clueless.

I thought we were just coming to check out the tree and see how beautiful it was, but in the end we found out that it is being delivered to our house on Sunday by UPS who donates their trucks for this cause.

I wish so much that Erin could have been able to come see her tree, it was such a magical experience.  But, I think she will love to see it at home and play with her little bear.  She is such a loved little girl.

And truly how thoughtful that the tree came with a little extra something.

Thank you so much!

*♥**♥**♥**♥**♥**♥**♥**♥*

Our wonderful night didn't end there.

At 11:20 pm we picked up my sister Annie from the airport.

She was the best missionary in the Sweden Stockholm Mission

Welcome home Annie!

I have felt the Christmas spirit so much stronger this year than ever before. 

It is through our trials that we are blessed. 

Blessed with friends, family, love, and most importantly,

an understanding of

our Savior's love for us!