On Saturday, December 7th, Goldleaf Financial (Brad's employer), Trinity Lutheran Church (our church) and Corey and Kayla Reiffenberger (Brad's cousin and his wife) had a local benefit for us. They planned for months and, despite our initial hesitation (due to the fact that I had already had a benefit in Wisconsin and we felt we didn't really deserve another benefit) they planned a heart-warming event. My parents came from Wisconsin to celebrate with us, we enjoyed a meal of barbecues (donated by a wonderful family from church), a silent auction, and a worship/celebration service to end the evening. The weather was bitterly cold and icy that evening, but so many people came...it blew us away. The support and love we've felt from our community and loved ones has been staggering, and the monetary support has honestly made the difference between Brad and/or I having to figure out finding additional work. Thank you to all who planned, all who donated, all who volunteered, and all who attended. What a blessing you are to us!
Mary (Brad's mom), myself, Korinne (Brad's aunt), Emily and Megan.
A (blurry) picture of my dad, Emily, and I.
The Goldleaf helpers. What an amazing group of women!
Everything is set up and ready to go...they had linen-covered tables with pictures of our family and plates of dessert bars. It was bright, cheery, and personal.
The barbecue supper.
The silent auction.
Brendan, guarding his bid for the Vikings tickets.
The worship/celebration service.
We enjoyed some beautiful singing from Salem's men's group.
Pastor Tim, being inspirational and funny.
Emily and I.
Laying of Hands. I've never really been a part of something like that, but, boy, does it make you feel surrounded with love and support. Powerful!
Lighting of the candles.
A quick hug from Pastor Tim.
Our family.
Brad's cousin, Corey, his beautiful wife, Kayla, and their two daughters, Gracyn and Lainey. They, along with Brad's boss, Jack, all of the employees at Goldleaf, our Pastors Tim and Kathy, and countless church friends, planned this entire event. What amazing people!
Brad and I.
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