It was one of those late autumn afternoons when the world seemed to glow all around me.
The blue sky and sunshine against the radiant crimson leaves provided the perfect backdrop for a field of pumpkins, llamas and a camel.
It was date night for my husband and I as we ventured off to Frog Pond Farms that perfect Wednesday afternoon, October 28. Having our four children occupied with extended family in town, we were able to escape the mayhem of the household together and serve the foster families participating in With Love’s fall family day out.
Families began by shopping from their cars. A seemingly endless line of cars drove past various tables covered with donated items.
Costume Table
Volunteers assisted each family as they stopped and scoped out the table beside them.
Drive Thru for items from With Love
With Love has always been generous with material goods, and this afternoon proved to be no exception. A bag followed the cars as volunteers filled it to the top with clothing, toys, games, books and even Christmas pajamas.
“Shopertunity”
We love families serving together!
My husband and I helped at the “book” table and every single car greeted us with smiling, excited faces.
“We love books!” one enthusiastic mother exclaimed.
“This is awesome!” exclaimed a five year old girl waving to me through the car’s sunroof.
Witnessing their gratitude and enthusiasm, I was equally excited to help them choose the right books for their family.
After shopping, families were given access to the farm’s fall drive through safari.
“Look for the baby llama!”
“There is a camel somewhere out there.”
“Mind that crazy farm cat!”
Their trek through the festive fields was sure to be an adventure.
Driving through the pathway in the fields, various Halloween and fall scenes greeted us at every turn. My favorite was the whimsical dancing maiden made from woven reeds and grasses.
I was also amused by the bathing skeletons.
At the end of the drive, they were greeted by dozens of grazing llamas who were eager to find a treat.
Families ended their journey by selecting a pumpkin and feeding one of friendly llamas.
In total, 54 families were served that evening, a total of 143 children.
It was truly a memorable evening for everyone, and my husband and I couldn’t ask for a better date night. :) As a volunteer, there is something that stays with you, long after the event is over.
Perhaps it’s the camaraderie of working alongside other volunteers.
Perhaps it’s seeing the excitement and gratitude of the families and children being served.
Perhaps it’s the fresh fall air and llamas.
In a season of cancellations and lost opportunities, I know for my husband and I it was refreshing to be able to be a small part of something very positive going on in our community.
How easy it is to lose sight of the bigger, better picture of life!
As we transition to this upcoming season of holiday, may we not mourn what is wrong and not normal; instead, may we focus on loving well.
Partnering with With Love enables foster families to continue to do the hard work, and from my experience, it makes for a pretty good date night too!
