Reading Rocks 2009

Another year is complete, and I am already sad. It is my favorite thing we do and although it is a ton of work-it is worth it in every way and so much fun!!!!
We had our finale party today and celebrated over 50 kids who read with us this summer. I also had Kirsten at the party taking photos with me, so thought it was hilarious to find this shot...
...and was happy to be able to take a group shot with all of the leaders, including me, in it...
I LOVE that my sweetheart gets to participate in this great program right alongside of the kids we serve in Kensington...
We begin the party by serving a meal to the kiddos while a video-photo-slideshow plays for them on the big screen in the gym. They always love seeing themselves!!!Then we head into the awards room, where I hand out a certificate to each child...
This year we also gave out overall Fruit of the Spirit awards to 6 special kids. That was a fun new addition! We give out these awards daily during RR, and chose the top kid at the end to give the big award to!
Then the kids are called in the order of the amount of points they earned, to select a new backpack, school supplies, new socks and undies!It all lasts for about an hour and 15 minutes, and then it's all over for another year. I run around the entire time smiling and loving on these kids that I don't hardly ever see anymore except for Reading Rocks. I was honestly sad to see them all leave today and know it was over. Other years it has been a relief, not this year, I wish it wasn't finished yet.
It's always fun to hang out with them outside as they are leaving, and to see them share their goodies with their parents. We know that the stuff we give away not only blesses the kids, but also entire families as it is a great financial help that they don't have to buy this stuff for school.

And they all head back to their homes in the city...Thank you God for allowing me to be a part of this wonderful program and for blessing us with supporters who give financially to provide these kids with all of the goodies we give to them!!! I am in awe of YOUR goodness Lord, as always!

** see the rest of the photos here.