Tis the Season
November 23, 2008 Leave a comment
Since we moved to the area, I have been looking for volunteer activities that engaged the whole family. Without even thinking about it, one fell into my lap. An announcement was made through a local mother's club that I belong to and it seemed like a perfect Saturday morning activity.
A group called the Tri-Valley Basket Brigade had formed to allow those (who otherwise might not) have a hearty Thanksgiving dinner. This is at least the second year of giving, and this year over 300 people/families were slated to receive a basket or a bag, depending on their circumstances.
At 10 a.m. sharp we met in the parking lot of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Pleasanton, about 15 minutes from our house. It was a gorgeous fall day and we joined at least 300 other folks (many, many
families) to build and deliver the baskets. The first task was to drop off the turkey, beans, desserts, baskets, and socks we collected (there was a wide variety of items to donate). We then lined up and filled two baskets for specific families. Caitlin easily hefted one basket, while Pete and Kelsey carried the second, and the little nugget (junior) hung out in his Peanut Shell (living up to his antenatal nickname).
families) to build and deliver the baskets. The first task was to drop off the turkey, beans, desserts, baskets, and socks we collected (there was a wide variety of items to donate). We then lined up and filled two baskets for specific families. Caitlin easily hefted one basket, while Pete and Kelsey carried the second, and the little nugget (junior) hung out in his Peanut Shell (living up to his antenatal nickname).
After the baskets were wrapped in a cheerful purple cellophane, we were given our assignments. As we were not sure about squeezing in baskets, we opted for two deliveries. They were easy, close by and frankly, over too soon. Our biggest concern was that the recipients (they could be nominated by friends, neighbors, social service groups…) would not be home.
On both counts we were pleasantly surprised to find them home, though not really expecting company. We handed the first basket to a slightly stunned young man and probably didn't give him much of a chance to say no. With a quick Happy Thanksgiving, we were off to deliver the next basket.
The second family took a minute to get to the door, but the woman who answered was so grateful. She allowed that they really needed the basket and we departed with the knowledge that she and her 
family would have a Happy Thanksgiving, whether they opted to celebrate tomorrow or next Thursday.
family would have a Happy Thanksgiving, whether they opted to celebrate tomorrow or next Thursday.
We all had a great time, and it was amazing to see the turn-out. There were so many people willing to give up a Saturday morning to fill baskets and drive them as many miles as it would take to get them to the recipients.
It didn't seem like we were doing much to buy a few things to donate for the 'filling'. However, when we saw all of the items lined up and the many willing to help; it really reminded us of just how thankful we were to be the ones helping. And, yes, we have already saved the day for next year's Basket Brigade.
And the kids? They loved it and Cait even asked if they do this at Christmastime. I have not yet been able to confirm, but not to worry, together we have already come up with many ideas of ways to help those around us.