Well, all good things take time, including this post ;).    Last month (October) I came up with “Operation Costume” to benefit Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas Child (OCC) and help bring Christmas to children ALL over the world.  I love all that OCC does, and it was exciting to come up with a way to partner.  So I supplied parents with professional photos of their children in costume, and the parents supplied me with a box to turn in for OCC.  In return they got a low-res. digital version anda 4×6 print.

Here is a look at my fabulous wagon (which is one of best Costco buys ever) filling up with toys…

 

And one very cute firefighter E., checking out some of the goods…

Taking the boxes to the relay center was a family affair, and my heart was full as we turned in all the boxes that we did (I believe it was 32!)  It was fun watching them pile up.  It was also good to get them out of the back of my car.

 

Well, the week of the official box collection, my girls were super excited, and at 3 and 7 years old had tangible ways to help at the relay center.  They helped two different days.  From tagging boxes, to glue sticks and stickers, deciding ages for the unmarked boxes– there was work to be done.

And they were a great help to my mom who spent the last 8 days there.  This is a look at them their first day helping (they requested to be dressed in Christmas colors to keep it all festive– love my girls!  And a baby doll and gluten free snacks in tow.)

 

 

The prints (FINALLY) came yesterday, and are so cute.  Below is a gallery of the little ones in their super kid costumes!  My oldest is excited to make one more box online.  You can still build a box or adopt a box,  by going here

And a very heartfelt thank you to all the parents who participated, for packing their boxes, and spreading Christmas love all over the world.  Thank you so so very much!  Now if only I could be there with my camera to see the faces of the children who receive these on Christmas this year.  Well, maybe one day.