Over the years, my family has delivered hundreds and hundreds of small living Christmas trees to teachers, therapists, neighbors, family members and friends. Because our son, Justin, has autism, there have been scads of people who have needed a sign of appreciation at the holidays (and other times, too). Now that Justin has graduated high school, he no longer has that wonderful support network. In fact, the lack of accessible services for those with mental health and neurological challenges in the United States is heartbreaking. If you haven't yet read "I Am Adam Lanza's Mother," you should. It will take you less than five minutes. Something must be done.
If you don't like how things are, change it! You're not a [Christmas] tree. - Jim Rohn
This year, we focused our tree efforts on those who live alone and do not have family members nearby. These are people who would not likely otherwise have a Christmas tree.
Each package included one live tree, a sparkly frame with a picture of our kids, mini ornaments, ornament hangers, LED battery operated lights and AA batteries.
Small trees are available at nurseries, and even grocery stores.
The mini ornaments and hangers were from Target.
The battery operated LED lights were also from Target.
If the recipient lived far away, we packed everything inside a free Priority Mail shoe box, available online from the United States Parcel Service HERE, and mailed it. The USPS will deliver shipping boxes to your home for free.
This is Justin last year at a nursing home, delivering trees.
This holiday season (and throughout the year), surprise someone who needs it.
Merry Christmas!
~Merrill ♥
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