Festival of Trees 2009

This year I had the opportunity of volunteering at the Festival of Trees. I was there from 10-1 on Friday December 4th. The festival is a fundraiser to benefit Primary Children's Hospital. People decorate trees and donate them which are then sold to other people wanting to help out. All the money from the purchase of the trees to the tickets sold go to the hospital. It is a very awesome thing.

My Aunt Bonnie volunteered with me. We were in charge of a specific row of trees. Our job was to make sure no one touched the trees and then answer any questions people had.

If any of you have been to the festival before you know what a big event it is. They had just over 800 trees donated this year. Along with Christmas wreaths, Gingerbread houses, quilts, etc. Many people who donate do so in honor of someone. Some of the stories are very touching. My mother volunteered two nights before me and she was in charge of guarding a tree that two women decorated in honor of their two still born baby girls. It was beautiful. I felt honored to be part of an event that has such a great Christmas spirit.

Below are some of the trees I got to stand by.


This tree was decorated in honor of a fireman who died in a road rage accident. He left behind a wife and young son. Such a tragedy to be taken so early and from such an unnecessary accident.

This tree was decorated in honor of a loving grandfather who passed away this year. He had bought a tree from the festival every year since 1982. The tree was decorated with all his favorite things. Also sitting on the chair were two children's books he had written. I had the chance to read them and they are very good. They are on my list of books I want to get.


This tree was dedicated to two sisters who lost their lives traveling home from snow college for the weekend. One of them was supposed to get engaged that Valentines weekend. So sad. It made me feel very blessed to have never been in an accident every time we have traveled that canyon. I pray for my families safety.


My mom was there with Cassidy as I did my volunteer shift. She liked seeing all the "pretties" but got a little overwhelmed (understandably) and tired.



This was my absolute FAVORITE tree!!

WINNIE THE POOH! Hooray! I have always loved Winnie the Pooh and friends and my daughter is following in my footsteps. When Cassidy first saw this tree my mom had a hard time keeping her away. It was such a cute tree! I have never wanted a tree so much in my life!
If only I had lots of money...........

So cute!

Volunteering made me feel very blessed for the wonderful people I have in my life. I love my husband and daughter so much. I'm thankful I get to be with them.

It was so great to see so much charity at this event.
After all, giving is what Christmas is all about!