Our dear friends the Ruggles family did a beautiful tree this year for The Festival of Trees and we got to be a small part of their amazing donation. I have attended the festival in the past but I have never participated in decorating a tree and I have to say it was incredibly fun to be even a tiny part of the process. The work that goes into this event is inspiring. The Ruggles family have lost two children as well as a brother and a nephew. Their tree honored all four of those sweet children. Paul met their daughter Stephanie over 20 years ago in the hospital and they became close friends while they spent weeks together there. Steph died shortly after Paul was discharged. Stephanie's influence and friendship has touched Paul and motivated him throughout his life. One of his first songs was written about her. About 13 years ago Paul reunited with her parents and siblings. I was fortunate to meet this dear family just a few weeks later. We have since spent good time with them and there is a tender relationship there now that makes us feel like family.
Paul also had the opportunity to be the performer that played opening night for all the festival board and all those who donated trees.
The Ruggles daughter and sister are incredibly talented and they designed the darling tree. In addition to honoring their loved ones, they wanted to honor Paul and Steph's story. These pictures are photo copies of some actual pictures Paul and Steph actually drew each other in the hospital.
This is Heather. She is Stephanie's amazing sister and a wonderful friend. She did the majority of the work on the tree.
Stephanie's incredible parents.
We felt so honored to be part of their event and are grateful to be part of their lives.
Later that week I took Eden back to the festival with our cute friends Robert and his mom Tina. We saw all the beautiful trees and then they went to the kids corner for crafts and such. It was so darling and the kids loved it. We will definitely have to go back next year!
Little buddies!
This was my favorite spot at the kids corner. The kids could go into a phone booth and pick up the phone and an elf was on the other end to talk to them. Their faces just lit up...it was so fun to watch!
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