For those of you who lit candles at home or on the road, know that we were thinking of you intensely as we shared memories, music, warm cider and homemade donuts.
A HUGE thank you to Paul Ippolito for providing the music, Eris Proctor for documenting the event with photos, Mendon Mountian Orchard & Motel for the warm cider, Linda Johnson for homemade donuts, and all the other volunteers who made this possible.
We are already looking forward to next year when we continue to fill the wish board, reach even more families with our offer of support, and hope that winter temps hold off just a little longer so our Friday night ceremony will not require wool hats and gloves.
As soon as I receive the photos, I will update the website.
Next support meeting date: Wednesday, November 11th, 7pm at the Whiting Library in Chester Vermont.
Followed, closely by our first big family fundraising event: Bowling for Babies on Sunday, November 15th at Springfield Bowl in the plaza.
Last night I mentioned that many great items for the Chinese Raffle were already arriving and that November 1st, their photos would be available here for preview. I've also said before that the raffle tickets will be available to our online readers with items requiring shipping costs being noted.
What I didn't mention were some of the 'big' sponsors I had approached. I thought it better not to get my hopes up. Some I heard back from and was pleasantly surprised. Others, I didn't. And yet more sent beautifully written, "great cause but we can't help you out" letters.
When I got home this afteroon there was a box waiting on my front stoop. I didn't dare to hope - and then I saw the image on the side
and I allowed myself to pray that the one I requested was actually inside that box.It was. And I'm still not quite able to contain my excitment so I must share it with you a tad bit early.
Without any further ado, this amazing angel bear will be part of our raffle. I hope whoever wins it will find some comfort in it. Click on the image to see a bigger, clearer visual.
See, sometimes angels do hang out on my porch. I never had any doubts.
