Wednesday, November 23, 2011

The Riley Tree


There was a special spirit at Primary Children's hospital the moment I walked in the front door. An overwhelming feeling that the veil was very thin throughout this miraculous place. We saw an ity-bitty little girl in a gown pushing her IV stand as if it was no big deal, a baby being pushed in a crib down the hall, parents holding their baby going for a walk. I'm telling you I was on the verge of tears the entire hour we were there.

Brittany and I had the privileged of going with Grandmas White to set up a tree on the 3rd floor of the hospital. The tree is filled with toys, coloring books, puzzles...all kinds of things to brighten a child's day. Grandmas has been doing this tree for years. She started doing this tree when a young neighbor boy passed away. This is how the Riley tree came about.

We completed the tree and with much thanks from the nurses we headed down the hall to leave. One of the nurses decided to go get a boy who was recovering. She said he had a rough morning and hoped this would help him smile. We stopped and watched the boy come from his room. Sadness filled my heart as I saw this maybe 7 year old boy. His head was swollen, shaved and had large zig-zagged stitches from ear to ear. His eyes were glassy and red. Down the hall and around the corner he went. As soon as he saw the tree he just lit up. He crouched to his knees and started to pick out his present.

I can't really put into words how I felt. My heart ached. This year, can we all please take the time to give of our time, talents or monetary means to help someone in need. We are unable to put on the Bloggers Give Back Project this year, so I'm looking for another way to help someone in need. Do you know of anyone? This season is just not the same for me unless I find a way to brighten someones life.

Keep the spirit of giving and love bright this Christmas season. Love you all!!
..........
XOXOXO     

6 comments:

Corey and Nikki Preston said...

I remember when Derek had to go up there. There is such a spirit of love, kindness. You know that there are angels all around. Ever since that experience Corey and I have donated to every charity event, because we know just how important that hospital really is. I'm so glad that you had such a wonderful experience!

Stan & Ash said...

This is so neat that you were able to do this. There is a definite spirit there. Your wonderful for keeping the real reason for this holiday season alive.

Keith and Charayye said...

Ok... So I backed up and looked at your latest posts! I've been behind on blogging (whats new, I'm working on it:) Finally updated though. I love all your posts! LOVE your family pics! You all look great! You pulled the red lipstick off to! Your kids are just to cute! Danielle had those exact same little white boots to!!! Your Halloween costumes were killer! You guys looked great!!! Love your hair! I think I tell you that every time I comment:) And your last post of the Primary Childrens Hospital pulled my heart strings! Wow how touching...it makes you so grateful for what you have and just for your healthy kids to. very very touching. Everything looks great and looks like your all doing well:)

Stephen and Ileana said...

Emily I am a sales consultant for a company called Everything Happy (Happy Blankie)their mission is one to love one to give, so for every product sold they will give one to a child in need! They have beautiful blankies, tees, onesies, stuffed animals etc. They have a childrens hospital that specializes in all sorts of surgeries, transplants, cancer etc. I know for a fact these blankies bring smiles to children! Let me know if you want more info and maybe you can post about it! I also have a code for 25% off everything :) Maybe we can get these blankies etc into this hospital you were at and bring some real smiles to those children!!

Stephen and Ileana said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Stephen and Ileana said...

My email is stevesouth361@yahoo.com and the website for Everything Happy is www.everythinghappy.com