by Bonnie Meyer, daughter of Asst Dr. of Nursing, Ruby Rilloraza
In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle that so many of us find ourselves in, it’s always important to remember the reason for the entire season: the birth of our King. Focusing on Jesus, St. Nicholas, and the importance of giving to others, the sisters, employees, and families of employees celebrated a belated summer picnic on December 9, 2011.
As we all know, food brings people and hearts together, and the delicious grilled hot dogs, baked beans, scrumptious fries, and sweets table was a perfect beginning to a night of fun. Following dinner, the children had the opportunity to speak with St. Nick and receive gifts from the generous sisters. Once the children had time to gleefully rip open their presents, lots of fun followed: games, dancing, Bozo buckets, and gingerbread house decorating. Smiles, laughter, singing, and hugs were seen and heard all around– a sure sign of a good time for all.
Indeed, it is so easy to get caught up with the secular part of the holiday season. But with the efforts of the sisters and employees of the Little Sisters of the Poor in Palatine, many families had a precious chance to spend time together and savor all that this Advent season has to offer: the gift of God’s love.
Picnic with St. Nick